Texas Lawmaker Proposes Renaming I-35 in Austin to "President Donald J. Trump Highway"

Texas Representative Joanne Shofner has introduced legislation to rename Interstate 35 in Travis County to "President Donald J. Trump Highway," sparking a divisive response from Austin locals. Proponents of the bill argue that it honors a president they view as a transformative leader, with Shofner stating, "Texas needs to lead in naming a major interstate... after the greatest president of our time. " Conversely, many residents are concerned about the implications of such a change, particularly given I-35's reputation for traffic issues and safety hazards.

Local resident Daniel Baladez articulated this sentiment, saying, "If it's not broken, don't fix it," while others like Fran Rush expressed anger, fearing that renaming the highway would exacerbate existing problems. The proposal underscores the ongoing friction between the liberal city of Austin and the Republican state government, which has historically faced opposition from local constituents. Safety advocates, including representatives from Rethink I-35, emphasize that immediate safety concerns should take precedence over naming issues. As the legislature continues to debate the bill, its outcome remains uncertain, reflecting broader political dynamics at play in Texas. The situation encapsulates the challenges of governance in a politically diverse state.