Laura Clark: ‘The Gulf of America’ is a symbol of Trump’s America First agenda close to home

Laura Clark

President Donald Trump’s bold decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” wasn’t just about changing a name. It was about reclaiming a sense of pride, sovereignty, and American identity that he believes is long overdue. 

President Trump is methodical, and the bold decisions he is making at the onset of his presidency are to be commended. They are part of his “America First” agenda and he is making good on his promises from day one. 

By renaming the Gulf, Trump is signaling to the world that it plays a vital role in the nation’s success — as well as the success of the world.

From its oil reserves that fuel the economy to its fisheries that support countless livelihoods, the Gulf is more than just a body of water. It’s a backbone of the American economy, and this rebranding serves as a reminder that its contributions are deeply tied to the strength of the United States.

This decision also underscores America’s sovereignty in a powerful way. Trump’s move sent a clear message to the world: the United States is taking ownership of what it sees as its rightful influence over this vital region. By rebranding the Gulf, he reinforced the idea that America is unapologetically proud of its resources and leadership.

This isn’t just about geography; it is also about honoring American heritage. Alongside the renaming of the Gulf, Trump signed an executive order titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness.” This order also reinstated the name “Mount McKinley” for North America’s highest peak, showcasing a broader effort to honor the nation’s rich history and its visionary leaders. 

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Supporters see this decision as a patriotic stand, a symbolic way to strengthen national pride. For them, renaming the Gulf isn’t just about maps and names; it is a reflection of America’s resilience and significance. Trump’s decision reminds Americans of the Gulf’s importance as a cornerstone of their prosperity and heritage.

President Trump is bringing back a sense of pride that we haven’t felt in a long time. His actions, from strengthening borders to standing up for American resources, are making people proud to wave the red, white, and blue again. As one supporter said, “We’ve been needing a leader who’ll stand up and say, ‘America comes first,’ and that’s exactly what Trump’s doing. He’s giving us a reason to hold our heads high again.” This renaming of the Gulf is just another way he’s showing that America’s best days are ahead, not behind us.

As President Trump himself might say, “We’re not just making waves in the Gulf—we’re making history.” The “Gulf of America” is more than a name; it’s a reminder that this country is built on bold decisions, unshakable pride, and a determination to leave a legacy that lasts for generations.

Laura Johnston Clark is a wife, mother, and businesswoman. She grew up in the Wiregrass and now lives in Birmingham with her husband, retired Air Force Col. David Etheredge. She is a member of the Alabama Republican Party.