Democrats are reacting furiously to a new GOP proposal to rename Washington, D.C.’s main international airport after former President Donald Trump. Rep. Guy Reschenthaler, R-Pa., unveiled a bill backed by six of his fellow House Republicans to change the name of Washington Dulles International Airport to Donald J. Trump International Airport. While the bill likely has little chance of being passed in the current Congress, it did succeed in triggering the ex-president’s critics when the legislative text was unveiled on Tuesday.
Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., expressed his disapproval by stating, 'Donald Trump is facing 91 felony charges. If Republicans want to name something after him, I’d suggest they find a federal prison.' Rep. Jennifer Wexton, D-Va., criticized the proposal, emphasizing the need to focus on important issues rather than renaming an airport after someone who sought to undermine democracy.
Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., recalled the chaos at Dulles during Trump's travel ban on terror-prone countries, highlighting the impact on innocent individuals. Rep. Brendan Boyle, D-Pa., sarcastically remarked that renaming Dulles would be a fitting tribute to the former president.
Rep. Sean Casten, D-Ill., likened the bill's supporters to children seeking attention from an abusive parent. Reschenthaler defended his bill, emphasizing the symbolism of freedom, prosperity, and strength associated with the proposed name change.
Washington Dulles International Airport is a critical hub for domestic and international travel, serving millions of passengers annually. Despite its ranking as the 33rd busiest U.S. airport in terms of passenger traffic, Dulles plays a significant role in facilitating travel for lawmakers and Washington officials, especially for international flights not available at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
The proposed renaming of Dulles to Trump International Airport has sparked controversy and divided opinions among lawmakers, reflecting the ongoing political tensions surrounding the legacy of the former president.
