Rep. Jim Costa Votes against the Gulf of America Act

WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) spoke on the House floor in opposition to H.R. 276 – The Gulf of America Act, legislation to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America.” This legislation would require federal agencies, under the oversight of the U.S. Board on Geographic Names, to update documents and maps to reflect the new name.

Watch his remarks on YouTube.  

Congressman Costa:“Mister Speaker, at a time when Americans are struggling to afford groceries, housing, and gas. Congress should be focused on lowering costs, not renaming bodies of water.

During President Trump’s first 100 days, the economy shrank, the stock market and 401(k)s took a hit, and he launched a trade war that could cost the average family nearly $4,900 this year alone. 

Rather than offering solutions, Republicans are wasting time on renaming the Gulf of Mexico. The Gulf of America Act is an absurd bill. It’s political theater at its worst.

The Gulf of Mexico has held that name for over 500 years. Spanish explorers like Alonso Alvarez de Pineda charted those waters before the United States even existed. Let’s call this bill for what it is: a Trump vanity project.

My constituents in California’s San Joaquin Valley aren’t asking about the Gulf of Mexico. They’re asking me about their healthcare, reducing inflation, and investing in our communities.

Congress must focus on what really matters — passing a budget, getting a Farm Bill done, and delivering on the priorities the American people sent us here to do.

If this is the best the Republican majority can do, it’s no wonder the public is fed up with Congress. Enough with the political stunts! The American people deserve better. 

I yield back the balance of my time.”