Trump Proposes Naming Major Infrastructure After Himself Amid Controversy
In a controversial move, U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed releasing federal funds for infrastructure projects in exchange for renaming New York's Penn Station and Washington Dulles International Airport after himself. However, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer dismissed the proposal as "extortion."
Trump, known for his extensive real estate portfolio, has initiated a campaign to embed his name and brand within state institutions, challenging traditional norms that typically discourage the politicization of names before a president leaves office or after their death.
In December, the board of the Kennedy Center, whose members Trump has carefully selected, voted to rename the arts complex, which honors the late President John F. Kennedy, as the "Trump_Kennedy Center." Recently, the name Trump was also assigned to the "Peace Institute" in Washington through a decision by the State Department.
Trump's ambitions extend further, as he aims to construct an "Independence Arch" reminiscent of Paris's Arc de Triomphe and has begun building a new event space at the White House, necessitating the demolition of the eastern wing of the building.
Networks such as CNN and NBC reported that Trump is currently focusing on the two major train stations and the airport, offering to release $16 billion in outstanding funds for an infrastructure project connecting New York and New Jersey if Schumer agrees to assist with the renaming. Schumer has rejected this offer.
Simultaneously, Trump unveiled a new government website offering low-cost medications under the name "Trump RX" to further imprint his legacy in the public sector.
New York Congressman Jerry Nadler characterized these actions as "blatant political extortion," emphasizing that what Trump is doing is unprecedented in U.S. history.
Trump acknowledged that his ambition to secure his name in public institutions is also tied to his desire to win upcoming elections, reflecting an aspect of his ambitious and controversial persona.
