On September 5, 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14347, Restoring the United States Department of War. It states, in part:
"On August 7, 1789, 236 years ago, President George Washington signed into law a bill establishing the United States Department of War to oversee the operation and maintenance of military and naval affairs. It was under this name that the Department of War, along with the later formed Department of the Navy, won the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II, inspiring awe and confidence in our Nation's military, and ensuring freedom and prosperity for all Americans. The Founders chose this name to signal our strength and resolve to the world. The name "Department of War," more than the current "Department of Defense," ensures peace through strength, as it demonstrates our ability and willingness to fight and win wars on behalf of our Nation at a moment's notice, not just to defend. This name sharpens the Department's focus on our own national interest and our adversaries' focus on our willingness and availability to wage war to secure what is ours. I have therefore determined that this Department should once again be known as the Department of War and the Secretary should be known as the Secretary of War."
To the list of America's victories in war, I add the Mexican American War and the Spanish American War.
This name change is on its way to becoming Congressionally enacted law. On April 30, 2026, the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027. The vote was very largely along partisan line, with 14 Democrats and 1 Independent joining Republicans in passing the bill. Three Republicans voted Nay.
The Act passed by the House included an Amendment, offered by Mr. Ronny Jackson (Republican, Texas-13) restoring the name Department of War.
The bill was sent to the Senate, where the Senate Armed Services Committee held a "mark up" hearing June 9-10. While the hearing was closed to the public, news outlets report that the Senate Committee is moving the bill forward.
