Florida GOP Chairman Evan Power on Monday boasted a new addition to Florida highways with its 'Gulf of America' billboard after President Donald Trump ordered the name change of the former Gulf of Mexico on his first day in office.
"Well it's a nice little billboard, I love the elephant that's reclining there on its little recliner. But we're welcoming people to the Gulf of America because it's the right name," Power said on Wake Up America with Sharla McBride on Newsmax. "Florida is the beacon of freedom for the rest of the country and what better place to vacation than the Gulf of America so come join us."
Power also noted the colorful billboards were being placed along Florida's panhandle, which is dotted with sandy beaches adjacent to the Gulf. The coastline's pristine water is a popular spot for out-of-town spring breakers looking to soak up the sun from college.
Following Trump's lead, Gov. Ron DeSantis recognized the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America name change in a state executive order on the same day Trump took office.
Other Florida officials like Sen. Nick DiCeglie (R-Indian Rocks Beach) have also come around to the idea.
The Gulf of America covers approximately 600,000 square miles along the Southern United States, including 770 miles by Florida's west coast. For context, the body of water is bounded by 35 state counties from westernmost Escambia County to southernmost Monroe County and its extension in the Florida Keys.
Trump also issued a proclamation recognizing Feb. 9 as "Gulf of America" day in the United States.
"Welcome to the Gulf of America! Residents and visitors along Florida's famed Gulf Coast will soon be greeted by a new wave of patriotism, courtesy of the Republican Party of Florida’s brand-new electronic billboards," the Florida GOP added.
