Trump renames Gulf of Mexico as 'Gulf of America'
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has signed an executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America."
The announcement was made on Sunday, with February 9 now designated as "Gulf of America Day."
The decision is part of Executive Order 14172, titled "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness," directing the US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to formalize this name change within 30 days.
National significance
'Gulf of America': A symbol of national pride
The renamed Gulf covers the US Continental Shelf area, which is bordered by Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. It stretches to the seaward boundary with Mexico and Cuba.
Trump's executive order stresses that this area has been an "integral asset" to the United States and remains an "indelible part of America."
The renaming comes amid heightened tensions between his administration and Mexico.
Announcement
Trump unveils new name en route to Super Bowl
Trump emphasized the importance of this change as he flew over the Gulf on Air Force One, on his way from Palm Beach, Florida, to New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX.
He said it's only fitting for the nation to celebrate this as part of restoring American pride in its history.
The US Coast Guard has already started using the name "Gulf of America."
Official transition
Interior Secretary tasked with formalizing Gulf's new name
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum has been assigned the responsibility of completing the official transition in 30 days.
Trump's proclamation urges public officials and citizens to observe Gulf of America Day with "appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities."
Historically, this body of water was called "Mexican Bay" (Seno Mexicano) until the early 1800s. Spanish explorers named it "Gulf of Mexico" for its long coastline with Mexico.