WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) announced on Tuesday that she has directed her staff to begin drafting legislation to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.” The proposal comes in response to remarks made by President-elect Donald Trump earlier that day, in which he described the name change as “appropriate” and praised its “beautiful ring.”
During an interview with Breitbart News, Greene confirmed her intention to push the legislative process forward. “I was so fired up watching the press conference when President Trump said that he’s going to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America that I directed my legislative staff to immediately draft legislation,” she said.
Historical Context and Support for the Proposal
The Gulf of Mexico, historians note, derived its name from the North American city of Mexico. Over the centuries, it has been referred to by various names, including “Gulf of New Spain” on a 1630 map.
A source familiar with the proposed legislation indicated significant interest from other lawmakers. “Cosponsors are being added as we speak,” the source said, suggesting growing momentum for the initiative among Republican representatives.
Greene emphasized that a formal bill is necessary to fund updates to maps, signage, and other federal references to the Gulf. “Congress has to do this because we have to fund the name change through all types of [systems], like the military, FAA, etc.,” she explained.
Greene’s Justification and Legislative Strategy
Greene likened the effort to the routine renaming of post offices, arguing that the change is both practical and symbolic. “It’s absolutely the right thing to do,” she said. “You better bet we are absolutely going to change the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Let’s go!”
Public Reaction and Next Steps
The proposal has sparked debate, with critics questioning the necessity of the change and the potential costs associated with implementing it across federal agencies. Supporters of the move, however, argue it reflects a patriotic rebranding in line with Trump’s broader vision for the country.
As Greene’s office prepares to formally introduce the bill, it remains to be seen whether the proposal will gain traction in Congress or face opposition from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.