A proposal to rename Palm Beach International Airport after Donald Trump is officially moving to Governor Ron DeSantis’s desk following a final push in the Florida Senate. On Thursday, the Republican-led chamber voted 25-11 to pass HB 919, a bill that gives the state control over naming major airports. Under the legislation, the West Palm Beach hub would be rebranded as “President Donald J. Trump International Airport.”
The move follows an 81-30 House vote earlier in the week. Supporters, including bill sponsor Sen. Debbie Mayfield, R-Melbourne, argue that Trump deserves the recognition as the first Florida resident elected president.
Mayfield cited his administration’s policies on border security and trade as primary reasons for the honor, noting that the rebranding celebrates a significant figure in the state’s political history. Sen. Jonathan Martin, R-Fort Myers, added that Trump’s status as both the 45th and 47th president makes the timing appropriate, suggesting his first term alone warrants the change.
However, the decision has met stiff resistance from Democrats and local representatives. Opponents pointed out that Palm Beach County voters did not support Trump in the 2016, 2020, or 2024 elections. Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman argued that infrastructure should remain non-political and that local residents were never consulted about the change.
Others, like Rep. LaVon Bracy Davis, raised concerns over Trump’s legal history and past controversial rhetoric, suggesting that such a “polarizing figure” should not be the face of a public gateway.
The logistical and financial hurdles for the name change are significant. The Senate’s proposed budget currently sets aside $2.75 million for new signage and materials—half of the $5.5 million originally requested. These funds would cover everything from emergency messaging updates and uniforms to rebranding the airport’s fleet of vehicles.
Beyond the state level, the change requires a green light from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). There is also the matter of intellectual property; the Trump Organization recently filed “intent to use” trademarks for the airport’s proposed names.
While Sen. Mayfield stated that Trump does not intend to charge the airport royalties, critics like Sen. Shevrin Jones expressed concern that the trademarks could allow Trump-affiliated businesses to profit through branded merchandise sold on-site.
Governor DeSantis has not yet indicated whether he will sign the bill, with his office stating he will review the final version once it arrives. If approved, the legislation would also grant the state legislature the power to rename other major hubs, including those in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa.
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