Trump Faces Widespread Criticism Over Alleged Attempt to Use Federal Infrastructure Funds to Rename Penn Station and Dulles Airport After Himself

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is under fire after reports emerged that he offered to release federal infrastructure funds in exchange for renaming major transportation hubs after himself. According to CNN and NBC on Thursday, Trump targeted New York’s Penn Station and Washington’s Dulles International Airport.

Sources say Trump suggested the deal to Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer. The proposal tied the release of billions in federal funds for a New York infrastructure project to Schumer’s support for renaming the stations. Schumer reportedly rejected the offer, calling the move unacceptable.

The funds involved are part of a $16 billion federal allocation intended for a tunnel connecting New York and New Jersey. Both states are suing to access the withheld money. Critics argue that Trump’s alleged attempt blurred the lines between public funding and personal branding.

Trump’s efforts to put his name on government projects are unprecedented. In December, his handpicked Kennedy Center board voted to rename the arts complex the “Trump-Kennedy Center.” He has also initiated construction of an “Independence Arch,” modeled after Paris’s Arc de Triomphe, and began work on a new White House ballroom, removing the East Wing to make space.

Observers note that renaming public infrastructure after a sitting or recently retired president is highly unusual. Traditionally, federal landmarks are named posthumously to avoid political bias. Trump’s push goes against these long-standing norms.

His efforts extend beyond buildings. Reports indicate the Treasury drafted a $1 coin featuring Trump’s image, despite laws prohibiting images of living presidents on currency. Additionally, he launched TrumpRx, a government-backed website offering low-cost prescription drugs.

Critics reacted strongly. New York Representative Jerry Nadler called the alleged renaming proposals an “extortion racket.” Legal experts say the actions could face political backlash and legal challenges, raising questions about the proper use of federal funds and public property.

Trump’s attempts underline his continued focus on personal branding within government projects. Whether any of these initiatives succeed remains uncertain. However, the reports have sparked intense debate about the boundaries between public office, personal promotion, and political influence.