Staff Reports
Governor Ron DeSantis has taken a bold step in the great state of Florida by officially designating the waters along its western coast as the “Gulf of America.” This decision makes Florida the pioneer in this naming venture, a surprising yet welcome move that showcases the state’s commitment to patriotism, all while handing a big win to fans of good ol’ American tradition.
The change follows President Donald Trump’s executive order from his first day back in office after a resounding reelection in 2024. By renaming the Gulf of Mexico, Trump isn’t just making a geographical change; he’s drawing lines in the sand, or rather, in the surf, to promote a narrative of American exceptionalism that resonates deeply with conservative values. Who needs the mundane when you can embrace national pride over waves and sunshine?
The legislative machinery behind this historic shift consists of two bills, HB 575 and HB 549, both signed into law on Monday. These bills mandate state agencies and school districts to update their educational materials to reflect this newfound identity of the Gulf. Textbooks will now be filled with the rich American legacy tied to this body of water, ensuring that future generations know it as the “Gulf of America” and not some dated geographical title that harkens back to the days of colonialism. This legislative effort demonstrates a true commitment to teaching the kids about their country’s greatness right from the start.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis makes the state the first to legally recognize 'Gulf of America' https://t.co/YB3i6QMTS0
— Just the News (@JustTheNews) April 15, 2025
The sponsors of these bills, both prominent Florida senators, couldn’t contain their enthusiasm. In a delightful photo-op, they posed with DeSantis, holding blue Sharpies and vibrant green road signs emblazoned with the new name. This photo wasn’t just a simple press announcement; it was a celebration of national pride, akin to planting a flag in foreign territory—except this territory is proudly American.
The accompanying rhetoric from the senators also carries the spirit of the times. They echoed sentiments that reflect the need to instill pride and understanding of American values in schools, ensuring that kids grasp the essence of what it means to be American. The sentiment is clear: education today will mold the patriots of tomorrow, and what better way to start than with a name that reinforces national pride?
It’s no wonder that major entities like the U.S. Coast Guard, Google Maps, and Apple Maps have already taken steps to adopt this new name. This isn’t just a rebranding; it’s a full-on cultural shift towards embracing a more assertive, America-first approach. In a world where many institutions tiptoe around national identity, Florida is taking the lead, proving once again that it’s not just a beach destination but a frontline state in the battle for American values.
