In the Southern United States, Republican lawmakers are taking steps to officially adopt the name “Gulf of America,” as originally suggested by President Donald Trump, as the formal name for the Gulf of Mexico. They are proposing that this designation be utilized in maps, textbooks, and signage within their states.
Recently, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida enacted legislation mandating the use of “Gulf of America” in state laws and educational materials. Similarly, Louisiana’s Governor Jeff Landry issued an executive order in March to ensure state documents reflect this new naming convention. The Louisiana Department of Education also plans to adjust the state’s social studies curriculum to incorporate the change.
Republicans argue that cementing the name “Gulf of America” signifies national pride. However, some Democrats have objected, viewing it as a political maneuver. The Alabama House of Representatives passed a bill by a 72-26 vote, instructing government bodies and employees at state and local levels to adopt the new name. The legislation mandates “reasonable efforts” to update materials such as maps, textbooks, and websites. The measure, which attracted partisan support, now awaits a decision in the Alabama Senate.
David Standridge, a Republican representative and the bill’s main proponent in Alabama, emphasized the need for clear guidance on the official name used by state agencies. He mentioned ongoing confusion over compliance due to the existing presidential executive order.
“Presently, we’ve got an executive directive from the President. This bill aims to provide clarity when acquiring maps and textbooks,” stated Standridge.
Democratic critics, such as Mobile Democrat Rep. Barbara Drummond, argue that the rebranding signifies a frivolous expense when resources could address more substantive issues.
Drummond remarked, “It’s time to cease these trivial endeavors and focus on actions that promote progress.”
Standridge assured that state entities would not need to purchase new materials immediately, but must ensure any new acquisitions reflect the updated terminology.
Doubts persist among some lawmakers about the long-term validity of the change. Representative Kenyatte Hassell posed a noteworthy question regarding the name’s permanence, suggesting it might revert under a new president.
“Will we switch back to the Gulf of Mexico with a change in presidency four years from now?” queried Hassell.
Standridge conceded the potential for future administration shifts to restore the original name but expressed skepticism about such a reversal.
“I can’t fathom why a president might opt to change from America to Mexico,” Standridge remarked following the legislative vote.