In a recent House Natural Resources Committee meeting, Lauren Boebert hinted that former President Donald Trump might consider renaming Washington D.C. to the ‘District of America,’ continuing his rebranding efforts that recently changed the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the ‘Gulf of America.’
The suggestion came as Boebert voiced her frustration with Democrats’ dismissal of Trump’s bold actions, warning them that the renaming might extend further to the nation’s capital.
Rebranding the Gulf of Mexico
Earlier this year, Trump signed an executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico, a body of water that had carried the same name for nearly 500 years, to the ‘Gulf of America.’
Trump justified the change, saying the Gulf had been an essential part of the United States’ history and economy, claiming it was ‘an indelible part of America.’
While many in the media refused to acknowledge the new name, recent events, such as the rescue of astronauts from the Gulf, forced some outlets to finally accept the rebranding.
Boebert Warns Democrats to Brace for More Name Changes
During the committee meeting, Boebert—an outspoken ally of Trump—addressed the resistance from Democrats regarding the name change.
She cautioned them that the renaming campaign might not stop with the Gulf.
“Next up may be the District of America,” Boebert said, referencing Trump’s possible plan to rename Washington D.C. as part of his broader political agenda.
The Political Tensions Between Trump and D.C. Mayor Bowser
If Trump were to proceed with renaming Washington D.C., it would likely escalate his ongoing battle with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, a Democrat.
The city is named after Christopher Columbus, and Trump’s proposed change could spark another round of political tension between the president and local officials in this historically liberal city.
Recently, Trump had issued a demand to Bowser to address the issue of homeless encampments in the city, claiming it detracts from the capital’s image.
Trump’s Federal Influence Over Washington D.C.
The renaming of Washington D.C. would only add to Trump’s longstanding desire to exert greater federal influence over the city.
Over the years, members of Congress, including Republicans close to Trump, have used their power to influence D.C. laws, from criminal code revisions to marijuana legalization.
In response to a spike in crime, the Trump administration has been in discussions about taking more control over the city, hinting at a potential federal takeover.
A Shift in Bowser’s Relationship with Trump
Despite the tension, Bowser has attempted to work cooperatively with Trump.
After his election, she made efforts to meet with the president and discuss mutual interests, such as bringing federal workers back to the office.
Recently, Trump acknowledged Bowser’s efforts in managing the city, praising her leadership while continuing to push for more federal oversight in the capital.
The Impact of Renaming Washington D.C.
If Trump moves forward with his plan to rename Washington D.C., it would likely intensify the polarized political climate surrounding the city.
The media, which has been critical of Trump’s previous rebranding efforts, could again play a significant role in shaping public opinion.
While Boebert and Trump’s allies seem ready for the battle, many Democrats and media outlets will likely resist, making this another chapter in the ongoing clash over Washington D.C.’s identity.