The Trump administration is exploring plans to rebrand the U.S. Department of Defense as the 'Department of War,' according to a Wall Street Journal report citing a White House official. The proposal, which would revive a name last used in 1947, follows President Donald Trump's public endorsement of the historical title as symbolizing strength.
Trump emphasized the symbolic shift during a White House address, stating: "The old name had a stronger sound. As Department of War we won everything, and I think we're going to have to go back to that." The administration is reportedly evaluating legislative pathways, including leveraging national emergency provisions, to bypass congressional approval.
While the Pentagon has drafted proposals for the change, analysts note potential geopolitical implications. A formal rebranding could reshape perceptions of U.S. military strategy amid ongoing tensions in Asia and beyond. The move aligns with Trump's longstanding preference for evocative terminology, though critics argue it risks escalating diplomatic friction.
If implemented, the secretary of defense would revert to the title 'secretary of war'—a term abandoned post-World War II to emphasize defensive priorities. The administration aims to finalize the decision within weeks, according to sources.
