
President Donald Trump to Rename Defense Department as Department of War
Politics | 9/4/2025
President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on Friday to rename the Defense Department as the Department of War, as revealed by a White House official. This move, if implemented, would mark a significant alteration in the nomenclature of the governmental body overseeing the United States military operations.
The renaming of the Pentagon to the Department of War harkens back to the historical roots of the institution. The term “Department of War” was the original title for the military branch of the U.S. government before it was changed to the “Department of Defense” in 1947 to reflect a broader focus on national security beyond just military matters.
The executive order is expected to draw attention and debate on the implications and symbolism of reverting to the Department of War designation. Proponents of the name change may argue that it brings clarity and transparency to the core function of the department, emphasizing its primary role in waging war and national defense.
Conversely, critics of the move might express concerns over the messaging behind the shift, suggesting that it could signal a return to a more militaristic and aggressive stance in U.S. foreign policy. However, it is essential to note that perspectives on this executive order vary widely, with proponents and critics offering differing views on its potential impact on national security strategy.
As discussions and analysis unfold following the signing of the executive order, stakeholders from various sectors are likely to share their perspectives on the decision. Legal experts and military analysts may provide insights into the historical context of the Department of War and the potential ramifications of this change on the operations and public perception of the Defense Department.