Trump Demands Name on Major Transit Hubs, Holds Up Infrastructure Funding

Critics slam former president's 'narcissistic' and 'insane' attempt to brand Penn Station and Dulles Airport with his name.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Former President Donald Trump is reportedly demanding that his name be added to New York's Penn Station and Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C. as a condition for releasing previously approved funds for the Gateway infrastructure project. Critics have slammed Trump's move as an egregious example of his narcissism and self-branding obsession, with lawmakers accusing him of 'extortion' and holding critical infrastructure funding 'hostage' over his personal demands.

Why it matters

Trump's reported attempt to force his name onto major transit hubs is seen as the latest example of his long-standing pattern of using his political power to promote his personal brand. This behavior has drawn widespread criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, who view it as an abuse of the presidency for self-aggrandizement. The dispute also threatens to further delay the Gateway project, a crucial infrastructure initiative that has bipartisan support.

The details

According to reports, Trump is trying to make previously approved funds for the Gateway project contingent on adding his name to Penn Station in New York and Dulles International Airport in the Washington, D.C. area. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has reportedly rejected Trump's demand. Several lawmakers, including Reps. Eric Swalwell, Jerry Nadler, and Don Beyer, have condemned Trump's actions as narcissistic, corrupt, and an attempt at 'extortion'.

  • On February 5, 2026, Trump's reported demand to brand major transit hubs with his name was made public.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who is attempting to force his name onto major transit hubs as a condition for releasing infrastructure funding.

Chuck Schumer

The Senate Majority Leader who has reportedly rejected Trump's demand to add his name to Penn Station and Dulles Airport.

Eric Swalwell

A U.S. Representative who criticized Trump's 'narcissistic' and 'insane' attempt to brand infrastructure projects with his name.

Jerry Nadler

A U.S. Representative who accused Trump of 'attempting to extend his extortion racket' by demanding his name be added to Penn Station.

Don Beyer

A U.S. Representative who said Trump's demand makes him 'sound like a big baby' and demonstrates 'a level of narcissism and corruption rarely seen.'

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What they’re saying

“I won't spend money on transportation infrastructure to make Americans' lives better unless you name buildings after me" is a level of narcissism and corruption rarely seen, and it makes Trump sound like a big baby.”

— Rep. Don Beyer (Twitter)

“Trump 'is pathologically petty and cannot be trusted to keep his word. There is no point in yielding to his ever-changing ransom demands.'”

— NY Rep. Ritchie Torres (Axios)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.