Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana has proposed a new guideline that would prohibit naming public buildings after living politicians. Speaking on CBS News’ "Face the Nation" on Sunday, Kennedy emphasized that public funds should not be used to advance the political profiles of current officeholders.

“You can’t spend public money to promote yourself,” Kennedy said in response to questions about President Donald Trump’s recent use of government resources for a politically charged advertising campaign. He further advocated for the establishment of a formal rule barring the practice of naming federal buildings after politicians during their lifetimes.

The call from Kennedy comes amid reports that President Trump and his associates are actively seeking to rename several federal buildings to bear his name, continuing a pattern reminiscent of his former career as a real estate developer. While such naming honors have historically been reserved for distinguished public figures posthumously, Trump’s initiatives have sparked debate over the appropriateness of self-referential recognition promoted through government channels.

Kennedy, who is not related to the former president, framed his position around concerns of ethical governance and the use of taxpayer money, suggesting that any commemorative naming should occur only after a politician’s passing to prevent the perception of self-promotion.

The senator’s remarks contribute to ongoing discussions about the intersection of politics, public funding, and the legacy of elected officials, particularly as instances of naming public structures after living figures have drawn increasing scrutiny in recent years.