Legislation Targets Presidential Self-Naming
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) introduced a bill to stop sitting presidents from putting their names on federal buildings. Democrats argue the bill addresses President Trump’s “narcissism.”
“For Trump to put his name on federal buildings is arrogant and illegal,” Sanders said. “We must put an end to this narcissism, and that’s what this bill does.” He added that naming public buildings after oneself mimics tactics dictators use to project a “Great Leader” image.
The Stop Executive Renaming for Vanity and Ego Act is co-sponsored by Maryland Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks. It prohibits renaming or redesignating federal buildings, land, or other assets in the name of a sitting president.
Effect on Current Federal Names
If passed, the legislation requires that any federal asset named after a sitting president revert to its previous designation. The bill responds to backlash over the Kennedy Center renaming in December 2025 as the “Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts.”
Meanwhile, the White House insisted the administration focuses on leadership, not branding. Spokeswoman Elizabeth Huston said, “Historic upgrades of national landmarks and peace initiatives would not have been possible without President Trump’s bold leadership.”
Historical Context of Naming Landmarks
Previous presidents have had landmarks named after them while in office. For example, Washington, D.C., received its name in 1791 during George Washington’s presidency. Likewise, the Hoover Dam was named during Herbert Hoover’s term.
The Trump administration argued renaming the Kennedy Center recognized the president’s role in saving it from financial collapse. Trump, as chairman of the board, replaced trustees and guided the center’s revival.
Defense From Trump-Kennedy Center Officials
Roma Daravi, Vice President of Public Relations, praised Trump’s efforts. “President Trump deserves credit for saving America’s cultural center after years of neglect,” she said.
Richard Grenell, center president, added that Trump eliminated debt, expanded fundraising, and restored programming. As a result, the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors raised a record $23 million, nearly double previous years.
Democratic Criticism and Legal Battles
Sanders and Van Hollen argue that Trump cannot rename public institutions for personal glorification. Van Hollen said, “We don’t have kings or dictators in America. These landmarks belong to the people, not self-worshipers.”
Additionally, the U.S. Institute of Peace was renamed the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in December 2025. Court battles continue over whether the Trump administration has authority to control the congressionally created agency.
