Trump Administration’s Naming Proposal Linked to Gateway Project Funding

The Trump administration proposed naming Washington’s Dulles International Airport and New York’s Penn Station after President Donald Trump in exchange for releasing federal funds needed to build a new tunnel between New York and New Jersey. This request was made to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer as reported by NBC News.

The administration had previously halted funding for the $16 billion Gateway project when the federal government shut down last fall. Despite the shutdown ending and appropriations being approved, the funds remain unreleased.

The Gateway project is a $16.1 billion initiative that includes constructing a new railway tunnel under the Hudson River, connecting New Jersey with New York. The project, delayed over many years, received a significant boost in 2024 when President Joe Biden’s administration allocated an additional $6.9 billion to it. However, White House budget director Russell Vought halted funding, aiming to prevent spending influenced by “unconstitutional DEI principles.”

The relevant New York and New Jersey authorities have filed lawsuits against the administration to secure funding that was previously allocated. Without these funds, the Gateway project risks halting, resulting in the layoff of thousands of construction workers. According to the project’s warnings, financial resources are set to expire by Friday.

While the White House remained silent on the issue, Schumer’s office did not comment either. A source familiar with Schumer stated, “There is nothing to trade. The president stopped the funding, and he can restart it instantly.” This exchange was initially reported by Punchbowl News.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Appropriations Committee, expressed her disapproval, stating, “These naming rights aren’t tradable as part of any negotiations, and neither is the dignity of New Yorkers.” She also criticized the president’s actions as self-serving amidst high costs from Trump tariffs and urged him to unfreeze the project to benefit the workers and the economy.

President Trump has consistently sought to associate his name with various landmarks and projects. Recently, he launched ‘TrumpRX,’ a site promoting cheaper prescription drugs. He has advocated for a ‘Trump Gold Cards’ pathway to residency and citizenship. In December, he controversially named the U.S. Institute of Peace after himself following its dismantling by his administration.

A Republican in the House introduced legislation to rename Dulles after Trump, although it has stalled since being referred to an aviation subcommittee last February. Additionally, a Florida state lawmaker proposed renaming Palm Beach International Airport to include Trump’s name.