1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I am writing to express serious concern about the Trump family business filing for trademark rights on airports using the president's name, particularly regarding the proposed renaming of an airport near his Florida home. This represents a dangerous blurring of public infrastructure and private commercial interests that undermines democratic norms. Public airports are funded by taxpayer dollars and serve entire communities. They should not become branding opportunities for a sitting president's family business to secure trademark rights and potential commercial benefits. This creates an unprecedented conflict of interest where public assets could generate private profit for the president's family while he holds office. Throughout history, authoritarian leaders have used their positions to place their names on public buildings and infrastructure as symbols of personal power rather than public service. Democratic societies have traditionally avoided this practice precisely because it transforms civic institutions into vehicles for personal glorification and commercial gain. The trademark filing takes this a step further by attempting to legally protect and monetize the president's name on public property. I urge you to investigate this matter and take legislative action to prevent sitting presidents and their immediate families from filing trademarks related to the naming of federally funded or regulated public infrastructure. We need clear ethical boundaries that prevent the commercialization of public assets for private benefit while someone holds the highest office in the land. Our airports, bridges, and public buildings should honor the communities they serve, not become marketing assets for presidential families. I ask that you speak out against this practice and work to establish safeguards that protect the integrity of our public institutions.