Trump Renames Defense Department to Department of War, Faces Criticism

President Donald Trump, in his second term, has aggressively used executive orders, recently signing his 200th order to rename the Department of Defense as the Department of War, a largely symbolic move reflecting his rejection of what he calls "woke" ideology and an emphasis on military strength. This rebranding, while requiring congressional approval to be official, has sparked backlash from progressives, Pentagon officials, and veterans who worry about its nationalist implications and costs. The move contrasts with Trump's 2024 campaign promises to avoid wars and his self-promotion as a "President of Peace" seeking a Nobel Peace Prize, highlighting contradictions in his administration. Trump justified the name change as a reminder of past military victories and a demonstration of the nation's readiness to fight and win wars, dismissing criticisms of hypocrisy. Meanwhile, the Trump administration continues to erode congressional powers by sidelining oversight and circumventing legislative controls, with Republican leaders largely passive or supportive. This combination of militaristic symbolism and executive overreach underscores tensions in Trump's governance style and policy messaging.