The Gulf of America: A Controversial Name Change

What Is the Name Change?

The Gulf of Mexico, a large body of water bordered by the United States, Mexico, and Cuba, has been renamed the "Gulf of America" in U.S. federal usage. This change began with an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, his first day in office. The order directed federal agencies to use "Gulf of America" in all official documents, maps, and communications. A bill, called the Gulf of America Act (H.R. 276), was introduced by Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene to make this change permanent in U.S. law. On May 8, 2025, the House of Representatives passed the bill with a vote of 211-206. However, the bill still needs Senate approval, which requires 60 votes, including some Democratic support, to pass.

Why Rename the Gulf?

The push to rename the Gulf of Mexico comes from a desire to emphasize U.S. influence over the region. Supporters argue that the Gulf is vital to America’s economy, with major ports, oil and gas reserves, and fisheries along its 1,700 miles of U.S. coastline. They say the name "Gulf of America" reflects national pride and America’s dominant role in the region. President Trump called the name “beautiful” and a way to honor American greatness. Some Republicans also claim the old name, tied to Mexico for over 400 years, doesn’t reflect U.S. interests. However, other countries, including Mexico, are not required to adopt the new name, and the United Nations recognizes it as the Gulf of Mexico.

The Voting Breakdown

The House vote on the Gulf of America Act was close, passing 211-206. Nearly all Republicans supported the bill, except for Representative Don Bacon of Nebraska, who called it “juvenile.” All 205 Democrats present voted against it. The bill’s passage in the House was a win for Republicans, but its future in the Senate is uncertain. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has not committed to bringing it to a vote, and Democrats are likely to block it, as they hold enough seats to prevent the 60-vote threshold needed to overcome a filibuster.

Democratic Perspective

Democrats view the renaming as a waste of time and resources. They argue that Congress should focus on pressing issues like the economy, healthcare, or border security instead of symbolic gestures. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called the bill “silly” and “small-minded,” saying it does nothing to help Gulf Coast communities. Some Democrats, like Representative Mary Gay Scanlon, called it one of the “dumbest” bills in recent years. They also note that the name Gulf of Mexico has historical and international significance, and changing it could strain relations with Mexico.

Republican Perspective

Republicans see the name change as a patriotic move to highlight America’s strength. Representative Greene argued that the Gulf belongs to the U.S. because of its military protection and economic contributions. Supporters claim the rename boosts tourism and national pride. Some, like Representative Brandon Gill, framed the vote as a choice between “America or Mexico,” accusing Democrats of siding with foreign interests. Republicans in Gulf states like Florida and Alabama have also pushed state laws to adopt the name, citing clarity and alignment with Trump’s agenda.

What’s Next?

The Gulf of America Act faces a tough road in the Senate, where bipartisan support is needed. Even if it passes, the name change only applies to U.S. federal usage, and other countries will likely continue using Gulf of Mexico. The debate has sparked mixed reactions, with a Harvard CAPS/Harris poll showing 28% of Americans support the rename, while 72% oppose it. As the issue unfolds, it remains a symbol of deeper political divides.