In a move aligned with President Donald Trump's recent executive order, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took decisive action to rename a major body of water along the state's western coast.
According to Just The News, DeSantis signed two bills on Monday, making Florida the first state to officially recognize the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America," following Trump's executive order issued on January 20.
The legislative action, encompassing bills HB 575 and HB 549, mandates state agencies and educational institutions to incorporate the name change in all geographic materials, including textbooks, starting July 1. The governor's signing ceremony featured Republican state senators proudly displaying blue Sharpies and green "Gulf of America" road signs in the Capitol office.
Trump administration spearheads historic name change
President Trump initiated this transformation during his first day back in office after winning reelection in 2024. His executive order set the stage for various federal agencies and digital platforms to adopt the new designation.
Major digital navigation services, including Google Maps and Apple Maps, have already implemented the change. The U.S. Coast Guard has also officially adopted the new name in its operations and documentation.
The renaming initiative reflects a broader push to emphasize American prominence in geographic designations. Trump expressed enthusiasm about the change, highlighting the name's expansive significance.
Florida leaders embrace American exceptionalism
Republican state senators have strongly endorsed the name change, viewing it as an opportunity to reinforce American values in education and government operations.
State Senator Nick DiCeglie emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating American exceptionalism through this symbolic change. His colleague, Senator Joe Gruters, stressed the educational impact of the initiative.
DeSantis's approval of the bills demonstrates Florida's commitment to aligning with federal directives while promoting patriotic education initiatives.
Implementation across state institutions
The new legislation ensures comprehensive implementation across Florida's governmental and educational systems. The July 1 deadline gives institutions time to update their materials and procedures.
State Senator DiCeglie shared his perspective on the significance of the change:
Florida is proud to follow the leadership of President Trump as the first state to officially recognize the Gulf of America. American exceptionalism isn't an abstract idea. It is an absolute fact that we must recognize and celebrate. In Florida, we will always put America first.
The initiative has gained support from various state agencies, with preparations underway to modify existing documentation and educational resources.
Historic transformation reshapes Florida's identity
The renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America marks a significant moment in Florida's approach to geographic recognition. DeSantis's signing of HB 575 and HB 549 on Monday established Florida as the pioneer state in officially adopting the new name for the body of water along its western coastline. The change, initiated by President Trump's January 20 executive order, will be reflected across state agencies and educational institutions starting July 1, with major platforms like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and the U.S. Coast Guard already implementing the modification in their operations.
