Florida Republicans rejected an amendment that would have barred President Donald Trump — or any private entity — from profiting off the proposed renaming of Palm Beach International Airport.
The bill, which would rename the airport “President Donald J. Trump International Airport,” has now passed both chambers of the Florida Legislature and heads to Gov. Ron DeSantis for review.
The controversy centers on trademark filings tied to a Trump-affiliated company.
The Trademark Issue
Sen. Shevrin Jones, a Democrat from Miami Gardens, introduced amendments that would have prohibited any royalties, licensing fees, or trademark-related revenue connected to the airport’s new name.
Jones cited recent filings by DTTM Operations LLC — a Delaware-based entity managed by The Trump Organization — seeking federal trademark protections for:
• “President Donald J. Trump International Airport”
• “Donald J. Trump International Airport”
• “DJT”
The filings were submitted on an “intent to use” basis and include protections for merchandise such as clothing, jewelry, luggage, and accessories.
Jones argued that allowing private trademark control over a publicly owned airport raises ethical concerns.
“This is not about honoring the President,” Jones said. “This is about generating revenue from a public entity for a private company.”
Every Republican member of the Senate Rules Committee voted against the amendment.
Supporters: A Presidential Honor
The bill’s sponsor, Republican Sen. Debbie Mayfield, said Trump deserves recognition as the first Florida resident elected president.
Supporters cited his immigration enforcement record and foreign policy initiatives.
Mayfield also stated that any licensing revenue would not come from Palm Beach County taxpayers.
“It is an honor… to rename Palm Beach International Airport after the first Florida resident to be elected President of the United States,” she said.
The Senate voted 25–11 in favor of the bill. The House passed its companion measure 81–30.
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Democratic Opposition
Democratic lawmakers argued the decision should be made locally rather than imposed by the state Legislature.
Palm Beach County voters did not support Trump in the 2016, 2020, or 2024 elections.
“Public airports are not political billboards,” said Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman.
Other Democrats criticized Trump’s past rhetoric and controversies, arguing that public monuments should reflect unity and statesmanship.
Jones also referenced a recently deleted social media post involving former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, which drew bipartisan criticism.
Trump attributed the post to a staffer.
Financial and Regulatory Considerations
The Senate’s proposed budget includes $2.75 million for rebranding costs — roughly half of the $5.5 million initially requested.
Projected expenses include:
• New signage
• Marketing updates
• Emergency system changes
• Equipment and uniform rebranding
The name change would also require approval from the Federal Aviation Administration and execution of agreements between Palm Beach County and the trademark holder.
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Broader Implications
The legislation also transfers naming authority for several major Florida airports to the state Legislature, including Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Fort Lauderdale.
Critics argue that preempting local control centralizes power in Tallahassee.
Supporters argue statewide infrastructure should reflect statewide leadership.
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Strategic Questions
Three key issues now emerge:
Will trademark control create commercial merchandising tied to a public airport?
Will Gov. Ron DeSantis sign or veto the measure?
Will FAA approval introduce additional regulatory hurdles?
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Conclusion
The airport renaming bill now rests with Gov. DeSantis.
Whether it becomes law will determine not only the name of Palm Beach’s airport — but whether a sitting president’s private business interests intersect directly with public infrastructure branding.
The debate is no longer symbolic.
It is financial, legal, and political.
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