PENSACOLA, Fla. — President Donald J. Trump on Sunday proclaimed February 9 as the first official Gulf of America Day, following his executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico.
The day happened to also be the same day as Super Bowl LIX, where the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22.
Families across America gathered to host food-filled celebrations. Later in the night, a large street celebration was held in Philadelphia, celebrating the Eagles’ victory, and possibly, even Gulf of America Day.
On Sunday, Air Force One, with President Trump aboard, became the first time a sitting U.S. President flew over the newly renamed Gulf of America.
Trump signed Executive Order 14172, titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness”, on January 20, directing the Department of the Interior to rename the body of water that borders Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. The proclamation states that the Gulf has been “an integral asset” to the country and remains “an indelible part of America.”
Trump visited the newly renamed Gulf of America for the first time Sunday, marking the occasion as part of his broader efforts to “restore American pride.” The order also calls on Americans to recognize the day with “appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.”
The renaming move is expected to generate significant debate, particularly among historians, foreign governments, and Gulf Coast residents.
Trump’s proclamation further cements his administration’s push to redefine historical and geographical narratives.
Note: this article contains some tongue-in-cheek humor as the celebrations were for the Super Bowl and not Gulf of America Day.