Florida taxpayers will foot some of the $5M bill to change airport’s name to honor Trump

Florida taxpayers will foot some of the $5M bill to change airport’s name to honor Trump The funds are expected to help pay for uniforms, signage and marketing materials - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments Florida taxpayers are set to shell out millions of dollars to help rename Palm Beach International Airport after President Donald Trump, according to a new report. On Monday, Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a $117.6 billion state budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which he said reflects years of “fiscal discipline” and “responsible governance.” The budget allocates $2.75 million for the airport rebranding effort, with the funds expected to go toward uniforms, signage and marketing materials, WPBF reported. A local funding request obtained by The Center Square in March estimated the name change would cost up to $5.5 million. “Any remaining costs would be paid from airport revenue unless additional funding becomes available,” the airport said in a statement provided to WPBF. “The Palm Beach County Department of Airports may also pursue grant opportunities for reimbursement of eligible costs, if available.” DeSantis, who ran against Trump in 2024 before dropping out and endorsing him, signed legislation in March authorizing the state to rename seven major airports, including Palm Beach, which will be rebranded as “President Donald J. Trump International Airport.” The 80-year-old president often travels through the airport on trips to his nearby Mar-a-Lago estate. “A lot of tremendous elements are going to be added, making it bigger and better,” Trump said of the airport in May. “I don’t think there’ll be anything as good as your airport will be anywhere in the country.” State Republicans praised DeSantis’ initiative, with one calling it a “historic recognition” of a president “who made Florida his home and saved our great Nation.” Democrats, meanwhile, condemned the move as a waste of taxpayer money that could have gone toward helping working families. The decision to plaster the president’s name across one of the Sunshine State’s busiest airports has also run into several roadblocks. At least two lawsuits have been filed seeking to block the rebranding, including one from a pilot who says the name change could create safety risks and confusion for pilots and air traffic controllers. Another was filed by a Democratic congressional candidate. In May, Eric Trump unveiled the logo for the newly named travel hub, which bears a resemblance to the presidential seal. “There is no person more deserving of this incredible honor than [Trump],” Eric wrote in a social media post. “Congratulations Dad! Looking forward to seeing flights landing at ‘DJT’ very very soon!” The logo was accepted as part of a trademark deal approved by county commissioners, which opens the door for Trump's businesses to sell branded items in connection with the airport. The airport’s new name is set to officially take effect on July 9. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments