Florida Lawmakers Advance Proposal to Rename Palm Beach Airport After Donald Trump
A new political push in Florida could rename one of its busiest airports after President Donald Trump. Florida House Republicans have adopted a bill to rename Palm Beach International Airport “Donald J. Trump International Airport,” moving it closer to legislation.
The Florida House’s Republican majority voted 81-30 to pass the proposal. The bill advances, and a similar proposal has reached the Senate floor. If passed by both houses and enacted into law, Palm Beach County’s airport would bear the president’s name.
Proponents say Palm Beach is linked to Trump. The president routinely visits Mar-a-Lago, his club in the neighborhood. He visits Palm Beach International Airport often on Air Force One. Lawmakers supporting the idea argue the airport is a gateway to Trump’s homeland.
Trademark filings for the president’s name have complicated matters. DTTM Operations LLC, controlled by The Trump Organization, has applied to the USPTO for rights to use Trump’s name for airport services and products. Filed names include “President Donald J. Trump International Airport,” “Donald J. Trump International Airport,” and “DJT.”
A senior executive with The Trump Organization said the trademark applications were filed to prevent illegal use of the president’s name. The organization also offered Palm Beach County free name rights if the rebranding attempt proceeds.
Not just Florida wants to name a major airport after Trump. The U.S. House of Representatives is considering renaming Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia “Donald J. Trump International Airport.” Federal authorities are considering that measure.
President Trump addressed claims that he pushed to rename other important transportation hubs after himself. According to his Truth Social platform, he did not ask Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to rename Penn Station or Dulles Airport in his honor. Politicians and construction union representatives suggested renaming Penn Station, not him. He did not address the Virginia airport project.
Progress on the Florida bill shows how symbolic naming selections may influence politics. Especially for nationally known persons, renaming public infrastructure requires legislative approval and public debate. The plan links Palm Beach identity to the president’s political and personal ties to the region.
For now, Florida’s renaming push is in the legislature. Palm Beach International Airport could be renamed after a popular local politician if it passes the Senate and wins final approval.
As state and federal debates continue, politicians and Florida law’s official procedures and congressional permission for federal properties will decide the conclusion.
Sources
Florida House of Representatives
U.S. House of Representatives
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Official statements from The Trump Organization
