In Texas, a bill is set to rename Interstate 35 the “President Donald J. Trump Highway.” Due to the intense political climate surrounding national figures and regional identity, this initiative, which was introduced in the state legislature, has generated a great deal of debate.
House Bill 5503 is part of a trend where roads, buildings, and other public projects are named after well-known political figures. Supporters believe renaming the highway acknowledges President Trump’s significant impact on U.S. politics. If it gets the green light, the new name would take effect on September 1.
Representative Joanne Shofner, endorsed by Trump, filed HB 5503.
“With his return to the White House, President Trump is committed to continuing his work to Make America Great Again,” Shofner said, in a press release. “Texas needs to lead in naming a major interstate, traversing to the greatest capitol of a former republic, after the greatest President of our time.”
A significant north-south route, Interstate 35 runs roughly 1,569 miles from Duluth, Minnesota, which is close to Lake Superior, to Laredo, Texas, which is located at the Mexican border.
In the 1950s, work began on transforming cattle paths and old regional roads into a fast highway over several years. This highway, I-35, became crucial for travel and business and is an important part of the Interstate Highway System. The development of I-35 shows how the U.S. has changed its transportation approach over time. Some fear that this could lead to political arguments. The name change might influence how people view American roads and impact local community feelings.
