Trump Declares February 9 as Gulf of America Day
President Donald Trump signs a proclamation aboard Air Force One, renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and calling for a nationwide celebration.
In a move that underscores his administration’s “America First” agenda, President Donald Trump officially designated February 9 as the first-ever “Gulf of America Day.” The proclamation, signed aboard Air Force One as the president journeyed from Palm Beach to New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX, marks a dramatic rebranding of the iconic Gulf of Mexico.
A Bold Executive Action
Trump’s declaration is part of Executive Order 14172, titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness,” signed on his inauguration day. The order mandates that the Secretary of the Interior complete the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America within 30 days. According to the proclamation, the Gulf has long been an “integral asset” to the nation’s heritage and economy—a sentiment Trump believes is best celebrated with a dedicated day.
“Today, I am making my first visit to the Gulf of America since its renaming. As my Administration restores American pride in the history of American greatness, it is fitting for our Nation to come together and commemorate this momentous occasion,” the president stated while signing the document.
What the Proclamation Entails
The executive order directs federal agencies and the U.S. Board on Geographic Names to update all official documents, maps, and communications to reflect the new name. Major mapping services, including Google Maps and Apple Maps, have already indicated plans to display the updated name for U.S. users once the change is fully processed in the U.S. Geographic Names Information System.
Public officials and citizens alike have been urged to mark the day with “appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities” that celebrate American heritage. The renaming initiative extends beyond mere symbolism; it is a key component of a broader campaign to reassert national pride by revisiting historical names and landmarks.
Reactions and Implications
The announcement has drawn a wide range of responses. Supporters in Gulf states and across the nation have hailed the move as a reclamation of American identity, applauding the president’s efforts to “restore American greatness.” Critics, however, see the renaming as a politicized branding stunt that risks oversimplifying complex historical and cultural ties to the region.
Local officials are now watching closely as the transition unfolds. While the Gulf of America is set to appear in all future federal communications, many users of digital mapping services still see the traditional “Gulf of Mexico” until the official update is implemented.
A Symbol of a Broader Agenda
This renaming is one of several high-profile actions taken by Trump during his second term. Similar efforts include reverting the name of North America’s tallest peak to Mount McKinley and the proposal to adjust trade policies with neighboring countries. Together, these moves are designed to cement a legacy of renewed patriotism and assertive policy changes.
As the 30-day window for the renaming process begins, questions remain about the long-term impact on local identity and international perceptions. For now, February 9 stands as a day for Americans to reflect on a reimagined national landscape—a landscape where historical landmarks are being reshaped to fit a bold new narrative.
Looking Ahead
Observers note that while the change in name is largely symbolic, it highlights the power of executive action in redefining national symbols. As federal agencies, mapping services, and communities adjust to the new designation, only time will tell how deeply the rebranding will influence both domestic sentiment and international discussions.
For now, Gulf of America Day is set to serve as a reminder of the administration’s commitment to a vision of American greatness—one that is as controversial as it is historically charged.
This comprehensive article provides the full context, details, and implications of President Trump’s declaration, ensuring readers are well informed about the significance and expected impact of Gulf of America Day.
