Washington, July 31 (AP) — Picture having a day off in celebration of Donald Trump's birthday or spending a $100 bill adorned with his portrait. Envision landing at Donald J. Trump International Airport near the nation's capital or witnessing a performance at the Donald J. Trump Centre for Performing Arts. These scenarios could become reality with a slew of bills sponsored by Republican lawmakers this year.
Six months into his second term, Trump is already being elevated by some Republican figures into the ranks of American legends. Various proposed bills are paying homage to the president even before his term concludes, and there's even a proposal to carve Trump's face into Mount Rushmore.
This legislative movement blends admiration with politics, underscoring the transformation of the Republican Party under Trump. Republican lawmakers from red-leaning areas are keen to secure his approval and align with his supporters’ sentiments.
Doug Heye, a Republican strategist and former communications director of the Republican National Committee, remarked that these bills are not as trivial as they may seem and hold significant importance. "It’s more about gaining Trump's attention rather than appealing to voters," Heye indicated.
Soon after Trump began his second tenure, House Republicans swiftly moved in his honor. Just 72 hours after his swearing-in, the move to rename Dulles International Airport in Virginia after Trump was initiated. "Best president in my lifetime," stated North Carolina Rep. Addison McDowell, the bill's sponsor. "I can’t think of a better way to honor someone than naming an international airport after them in our nation's capital," he added.
Rep. Brandon Gill from Texas waited a brief period before proposing to place Trump's image on the $100 bill, replacing Benjamin Franklin. This bill stipulates that no $100 bill printed after December 31, 2028, should exclude Trump's face, although federal law prohibits living individuals on U.S. currency—a law enacted post-Civil War to eschew monarchic symbolism.
Additionally, Rep. Greg Steube of Florida proposed to rename Washington's subway system to the "Trump Train," while Rep. Claudia Tenney from New York put forth combining Trump’s birthday with Flag Day to establish June 14 as a federal holiday.
The boldest proposal comes from Rep. Anna Paulina Luna of Florida, who wants Trump’s likeness carved into Mount Rushmore. Despite two assassination attempts and facing impeachment, Luna views Trump’s resilience and accomplishments as unparalleled, meriting this tribute. In the meantime, Rep. Joe Wilson of South Carolina, initially indifferent towards Trump, now advocates placing Trump's image on a $250 bill to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States.
It’s more than just a few isolated Republicans participating. Within the GOP's tax cut and immigration reform, leaders changed a savings account name from "MAGA accounts" to "Trump accounts," citing his transformational leadership.
Nobel Peace Prize Consideration
Some lawmakers nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, despite unfinished conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Notable figures like Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio have backed such notions, with others voicing support on social media platforms.
Tribute to Melania Trump
Not solely focused on Donald Trump, Rep. Mike Simpson from Idaho suggested naming the Kennedy Centre’s Opera House after First Lady Melania Trump, emphasizing her support for the arts.
For many Republicans, celebrating Trump through legislation makes efficient political sense. Endorsements from Trump have significantly bolstered political careers, with his approval being critical for those seeking office. Trump wields his support both as a reward for loyalty and a means to replace those he perceives as disloyal.
Consequently, Democrats see the situation as an opportunity to critique a Republican majority for prioritizing Trump tributes over tangible assistance for Americans. "House Republicans continue to embarrass themselves," said Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, labeling them as sycophantic. (AP)
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