The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) has announced that the Gulf of Mexico will now officially be referred to as the Gulf of America, following a directive from the President. The change is effective immediately for all federal use, and the U.S. Board on Geographic Names is expediting updates to reflect the new name in the Geographic Names Information System.
In a statement, the DOI emphasized the Gulf’s critical importance to the Nation’s history and economy. “The Gulf of America is one of the most vital assets in the Nation’s history and economy. Spanning over 1,700 miles of U.S. coastline and encompassing nearly 160 million acres, the Gulf has been a critical artery for America’s trade, energy production, and maritime industries,” the statement read.
The Gulf, known for its rich fisheries, vital energy reserves, and bustling ports, plays a central role in sustaining local economies and driving innovation. Its ports are ranked among the largest globally, serving as vital links between American goods and international markets.
President Trump’s directive underscores the Gulf’s enduring contributions to the United States’ economic strength and maritime legacy. By renaming it the Gulf of America, the move aims to affirm its central role in national growth and prosperity.
