In a bold move laden with symbolism, U.S. President Donald Trump has officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” via executive order. The President also declared February 9 as “Gulf of America Day,” urging citizens to celebrate the region’s importance to the nation.
The formal proclamation, signed on Sunday aboard Air Force One en route to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, marks Trump’s first visit to the area since the renaming. The executive order follows Executive Order 14172, signed on January 20, 2025, which initially mandated the name change.
“Restoring names that honor American greatness”
The initiative is part of a broader effort, titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness,” and directs the Secretary of the Interior to formalize the new designation within 30 days. The newly defined “Gulf of America” encompasses the U.S. Continental Shelf area, bordered by Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, extending to the maritime boundaries of Mexico and Cuba.
Trump emphasized the historical significance of the Gulf to American trade and development, stating, “As my administration restores American pride in the history of American greatness, it is fitting and appropriate for our great nation to come together and commemorate this momentous occasion and the renaming of the Gulf of America”.
Implementation and impact
Reports indicate that the U.S. Coast Guard has already adopted the “Gulf of America” designation in official communications. The change is slated to apply to official government documents and maps. However, it remains unclear whether educational institutions will be required to adopt the new name.
Tensions with Mexico
This decision arrives during a period of heightened tensions between the Trump administration and Mexico. Trump had recently threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Mexican imports but temporarily suspended the action after Mexico agreed to deploy 10,000 National Guard troops to the border.
Historically, the body of water was known as “Mexican Bay” (Seno Mexicano) until the early 19th century, with the name “Gulf of Mexico” originating from Spanish explorers.
