President Donald Trump‘s company has reportedly filed trademark applications to rename Palm Beach International Airport as “Donald J. Trump International Airport” — a move he’s already making moves to turn into a major profit churner.
Trump has been criticized over his business earnings and dubbed “grifter in chief” while in office. This latest step would give his holding company DTTM Operations LLC an opportunity to capitalize on “a range of branded merchandise, including clothing, handbags, luggage, jewelry, watches, and tie clips,” The Daily Beast reported.
If Florida lawmakers sign it into law, which has appeared to be likely, it’s expected to cost the airport, located four miles from Trump’s Mar-a-Lago, $5.5 million to modify and make new signs, equipment, uniforms and branded products.
But, “while the measure is still working its way through the GOP-controlled Florida legislature, the president appears intent on ensuring he profits from the name change immediately,” The Beast reported.
The move would change the airport code from “PBI” to three other potential names filed under the trademark applications, including President Donald J. Trump International Airport, Donald J. Trump International Airport, or “DJT.”
Trademark attorney Josh Gerben wrote about the filing and described it as an unprecedented move by a current president.
“Airport names almost always originate from the governmental body that owns or manages the facility. They are not owned or licensed by privately held entities,” Gerben wrote.
In his application, Trump not only wants to have the airport named after him but wants to cash in on the earnings, Gerben pointed out.
“The move raises unusual questions about the intersection of public infrastructure and private brand ownership,” Gerben said. “While presidents and public officials have had landmarks named in their honor, a sitting president’s private company has never in the history of the United States sought trademark rights in advance of such naming.”
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