Trump Declares February 9 as ‘Gulf of America Day’

NEW ORLEANS, LA — President Donald Trump officially declared February 9, 2025, as Gulf of America Day during a flight aboard Air Force One, en route to New Orleans for the Super Bowl. The proclamation marks the first time the body of water, previously known as the Gulf of Mexico, has been given a new name.

While flying over the newly named Gulf of America, Trump signed the formal declaration, asserting, “I, Donald J. Trump, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim February 9, 2025, as Gulf of America Day.” He called upon Americans to observe this day with “appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.”

The name change is part of Executive Order 14172, which Trump signed on January 20, and is aimed at “restoring names that honor American greatness.” The order directs the Secretary of the Interior to rename the continental shelf region bounded by Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.

“The Gulf of America has long been an integral asset to our once burgeoning Nation and has remained an indelible part of America,” Trump stated during the proclamation signing. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum accompanied him and indicated that official mapping services, such as Google and Apple, would begin using the new name.

As Air Force One glided over the water, passengers were invited to view the Gulf of America for the first time under its new designation. This move was met with a mix of curiosity and skepticism regarding the implications of such a name change.

Trump also took the opportunity to address reporters about the name change process, indicating that he had not directly spoken to mapping services regarding it. “Interestingly I’ve never spoken to them about it. It was our call,” he remarked while Burgum held up a map highlighting the new title.

In addition to this proclamation, Trump has previously called for the name of Mt. Denali, Alaska, to revert back to Mt. McKinley, further emphasizing a nationwide trend to restore historical names.

Regarding the celebrations for Gulf of America Day, it remains unclear what specific activities will occur and whether they will be established as an annual observance. Trump’s administration has indicated that plans are in the works, but specifics have yet to be finalized.

During the journey, Trump was also interviewed about his comments regarding Canada potentially becoming the 51st state, which he mentioned in conjunction with remarks regarding trade imbalances. “I think Canada would be much better off being the 51st state because we lose $200 billion a year with Canada,” he stated. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently acknowledged Trump’s annexation talks, linking them to U.S. interest in Canadian resources.

As a historical highlight, Trump will become the first sitting president to attend the Super Bowl in person, a tradition disrupted in recent years. He expressed that his presence at the game is a positive move for the country.

Trump’s comments also included praise for billionaire Elon Musk’s government efficiency initiatives, which target potential wasteful spending and aim to reform various sectors, including the Department of Education and the military.

Overall, Trump’s declaration of Gulf of America Day signifies a notable moment in U.S. history, blending tourism, national pride, and political strategy.