President Donald Trump is set to issue an executive order on Friday to rename the Department of Defense as the Department of War, a long-anticipated move aimed at underscoring the global presence of the U.S. military.
The announcement follows proposals by some of Trump’s closest allies on Capitol Hill to pass legislation formally codifying the new name, granting Congress exclusive authority to create, dissolve, or rename federal departments. Should such legislation not be enacted, Trump intends to authorize the Pentagon to adopt the new title in a secondary capacity.
“From 1789 until the end of World War II, the United States Armed Forces operated under the banner of the Department of Defense,” said Republican Florida Congressman and Army veteran Greg Steube. “It is entirely appropriate that we honor their enduring legacy and distinguished commitment to service by restoring the name ‘Department of War.’”
Republican Senators Rick Scott of Florida and Mike Lee of Utah have introduced a companion bill in the Senate to accompany the executive order.
The Department of War was originally established in 1789 and was renamed the Department of Defense in 1947, two years after the conclusion of World War II.
Trump has argued that the title “Department of War” simply “sounds better,” and discussions regarding the change have been ongoing between the president and Defense Secretary Pete Hegset. In March, Hegset conducted a social media poll gauging public opinion on the matter.
Hegset has since hinted at the possibility that his position as defense secretary may not be permanent. In several public appearances, including a speech at Fort Benning, Georgia, he suggested that “tomorrow the role could look a little different,” addressing a full audience of soldiers.
In August, Trump told reporters, “Everyone likes the fact that we had an incredible history of victories when we were the Department of War. Then it was renamed the Department of Defense.”
Acknowledging the potential need for congressional approval, Trump remained confident. “We’ll just do it,” he told reporters. “I’m sure Congress will support us if we need them to.”
