A wave of Republican-backed bills to honour Donald Trump, including a proposal to carve his likeness into Mount Rushmore, is triggering mounting political backlash over costs, symbolism, and national priorities.
The proposals, introduced by Republican lawmakers in the United States House of Representatives, span more than eight separate pieces of legislation. They include renaming major airports, creating a federal holiday, minting new currency, and directing federal agencies to undertake controversial research tied to Trump's political legacy.
Critics across both parties and policy experts warn the measures could strain public finances while deepening political divisions.
At the centre of the debate is aproposal to add Trump's likeness to Mount Rushmore, the national memorial currently featuring four former presidents. The site, overseen by the National Park Service, has long been considered complete, with officials repeatedly stating that further carving risks structural damage to the monument.
A separate bill seeks to rename Palm Beach International Airport after Trump, citing his residency in Florida. Another proposal targets Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, one of the busiest aviation hubs in the United States.
Additional measures would declare Trump's birthday a federal holiday, award him a Congressional Gold Medal, and require the United States Department of State to pursue a Nobel Peace Prize nomination on his behalf.
One of the more unusual bills directs the National Institutes of Health to conduct research into so-called 'Trump Derangement Syndrome', a term frequently used by his supporters to describe political opposition.
Policy analysts have raised concerns about the financial and legal feasibility of several proposals.Alterations to Mount Rushmore, for instance, would require extensive geological assessments, environmental reviews, and congressional appropriations, potentially costing millions of pounds.
Renaming airports would also carry significant administrative costs, affecting federal documentation, aviation systems, and international travel protocols. Aviation experts note that such changes typically require coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration and international bodies.
The proposal to mint a $250 note featuring Trump raises constitutional questions. US currency traditionally features deceased historical figures, and any redesign would involve the United States Department of the Treasury and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
Source: International Business Times UK
