CJ Pearson, Co-Chair of the GOP Youth Advisory Council, announced that President Trump signed an executive order to restore the Department of War name, replacing the Department of Defense. The statement was made on X.
“BREAKING: President Trump signs an executive order changing the Department of Defense back to the Department of War,” said Pearson. “We won every major war when it was called the War Department and now it’s officially back.”
On September 5, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order renaming the Department of Defense as the Department of War. According to the White House, this move is intended to symbolize strength and continuity with America’s historical “warrior ethos.” However, critics argue it could indicate a shift towards a more aggressive foreign policy stance. Implementation details are still unfolding.
Historically, from 1789 until 1947, when the Pentagon was overseen by the War Department, the United States engaged in major conflicts such as the War of 1812, the Civil War, and both World Wars. The War Department also established institutions like the Corps of Engineers in 1802 and managed significant expansions during WWII. These milestones are documented by the U.S. Army Center of Military History.
Renaming the Department carries significant legal implications since federal law defines it as an executive department under Title 10. Reuters reports that while Trump’s order applies “Department of War” as a label, statutory changes by Congress would be necessary for full adoption. Operational authorities and statutory functions remain unchanged under current law.
Pearson is a conservative activist known for his outspoken commentary from a young age and ran in a 2024 Georgia House special election. He currently serves as co-chair of the Republican National Committee’s Youth Advisory Council, which aims to amplify Gen Z voices within GOP strategy and outreach.
The GOP Youth Advisory Council was created by the Republican National Committee to recruit and engage younger voters by integrating youth perspectives into party messaging. NPR affiliate WUNC reported that its activities include roundtables and campaign outreach led by young Republican activists aiming to expand party reach among younger demographics.
