President Donald Trump made headlines on February 9, 2025, by signing a proclamation declaring the day as "Gulf of America Day" while aboard Air Force One. This historic event took place as he flew over the recently renamed Gulf of America on his way to Super Bowl LIX, marking the first time a sitting president has attended the championship game.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared the news on social media, highlighting the significance of the moment. "MOMENTS AGO ON AF1: President Trump signed a Proclamation declaring February 9th ‘Gulf of America Day’ while flying over the newly and appropriately named GULF OF AMERICA!" she announced. The proclamation was signed in international waters, emphasizing the unique nature of the event.
In his proclamation, Trump expressed pride in recognizing February 9 as the inaugural Gulf of America Day, stating that the Gulf has been an essential asset to the nation. He noted that this renaming aligns with his administration’s efforts to restore American pride and honor the country’s history. "Today, I am very honored to recognize February 9, 2025, as the first ever Gulf of America Day," he said, underlining the importance of commemorating this momentous occasion.
The renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America was part of a broader initiative by Trump to restore names that reflect American values and history. During his first press conference as president, he announced the name change, describing it as a designation with a "beautiful ring." His administration has also sought to rename Alaska’s Mount Denali, which was originally named after President William McKinley.
The proclamation’s signing aboard Air Force One was celebrated by many, including former North Dakota Governor and current Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, who praised the president for his efforts. "It’s official! Congratulations @POTUS on the Gulf of America! Interior has implemented your instruction from the Executive Order on Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness," Burgum tweeted.
The changes made by Trump’s administration will be reflected in official federal documents and maps, although it remains unclear whether educational institutions will be required to adopt the new terminology. The renaming initiative has sparked a mix of reactions, with supporters viewing it as a step towards honoring American heritage, while critics question the necessity and implications of such changes.
As Trump continues to push his agenda of "Making America Great Again," the declaration of Gulf of America Day stands as a symbolic gesture of his administration’s commitment to reshaping national identity through the renaming of significant landmarks.