Trump Says He Is Naming Projects After Himself Because ‘Nobody Will’ After He Leaves Office

US President Donald Trump has acknowledged that his push to attach his name to major projects and landmarks in Washington, D.C., is partly driven by his belief that no one else will do so after he leaves office.

In an interview with New York Magazine, Trump agreed with Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff’s earlier suggestion that he appeared to be building monuments to himself because others would not do it for him.

“That’s true,” Trump told journalist Ben Terris. “Nobody will do it once I’m gone. When I leave here, nobody will.”

Trump has embarked on an extensive series of construction and redevelopment projects around the US capital, seeking to leave a lasting mark on the city before the end of his presidency.

Among the projects attracting controversy are plans involving a large ballroom at the White House, changes to the Kennedy Centre, renovations around the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and the redevelopment of Washington’s golf course.

Several of Trump’s efforts have faced legal challenges, including his attempt to rename the Kennedy Centre and its campus after himself.

The moves have fuelled debate over the president’s efforts to shape Washington’s landmarks and cement his personal legacy while in office.