
President Donald Trump's Reference to Department of Defense as 'Department of War'
Opinion | 9/9/2025
President Donald Trump’s recent reference to the Department of Defense as the “Department of War” has raised eyebrows, with some interpreting it as a symbolic shift towards a more militaristic tone. The moniker change, though lacking in formal implications, has sparked speculation and scrutiny.
Unnamed sources within the administration suggest that Trump’s choice of language was intended to convey strength and a focus on national security. However, legal experts note that the official name of the department remains the Department of Defense, established in 1947 to replace the Department of War.
Critics argue that Trump’s rhetoric, including labeling the Defense Department as the “Department of War,” feeds into concerns about his approach to foreign policy and military interventions. They point to a pattern of increasingly aggressive language and actions that they interpret as signaling a more militaristic stance.
In response to inquiries about the terminology shift, a White House official declined to comment, leaving the motivation behind the President’s wording open to interpretation. The historical context of the Department of Defense’s establishment underscores the significance of Trump’s departure from its traditional designation.
As Trump’s language and actions continue to be analyzed for their implications on national security and foreign policy, questions remain about the long-term effects of his administration’s messaging on the country’s military posture. The President’s use of terms like “Department of War” adds to the ongoing debate over the tone and strategy of US military engagements under his leadership.