In a legislative move influenced by President Donald Trump’s recent actions, Texas lawmakers are deliberating a bill aimed at renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. This proposal arises amid national discussions surrounding identity and symbolism.

Proposed Legislation Details

Should the bill, known as Senate Bill 1717, pass, it would mandate the use of the name “Gulf of America” across all official references by state agencies, including documents, resolutions, and regulations. The Sunset Advisory Committee would also be required to consider these name changes in future agency reviews.

Legislative Progress

The bill has garnered significant support, passing the Senate with a voting tally of 20 out of 31 members in favor. It is now set to be evaluated by the Texas House for further consideration.

In conjunction with this, Senate Concurrent Resolution 38 was also approved, which emphasizes the “strategic importance” of the Gulf of America, receiving a vote of 22 in favor.

Arguments from Lawmakers

Senator Mayes Middleton, a Republican from Galveston, championed the bill, asserting that it embodies the spirit of American Exceptionalism. “America is a beacon of hope… we are a nation set apart from the rest of the world,” Middleton stated.

However, the bill’s proponents faced skepticism from Democratic Senators José Menéndez and Juan Hinojosa during the Senate debate. Menéndez questioned whether this legislative change addressed any pressing issues, while Hinojosa argued that the name Gulf of Mexico has historical significance and global recognition, labeling the proposal as politically motivated.

Historical Context

Middleton defended the initiative, indicating it was not merely a capricious suggestion and encouraged lawmakers to propose amendments in the future if desired. Senator Pete Flores added that previous governors, including Ann Richards, have renamed Texas landmarks, although he did not provide specific examples during the discussion.

Trump’s executive order altering the name of the waterway to the Gulf of America has sparked debate and led to mixed reactions from international figures, such as Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico, who stated that Mexico would likely continue to refer to it as the Gulf of Mexico.

House Similarities and Next Steps

In addition to Senate Bill 1717, there exists a parallel bill in the Texas House introduced by Representative Briscoe Cain, which has been awaiting movement in the State Affairs Committee since March. Legislative observers will be closely watching how these proposals progress through the Texas legislature.