Summary
Rep. Dan Crenshaw criticized Apple Maps for not renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, as mandated by Trump’s recent executive order titled “Restoring Names that Honor American Greatness.”
Crenshaw’s complaint reflects broader conservative frustration, as tech platforms and the global community continue to use the original name.
Critics compare the move to past nationalist gestures like renaming french fries “freedom fries,” accusing conservatives of embracing identity politics and culture wars despite their political dominance.
The name change is unlikely to gain international traction.
Wait, this is an official thing, not a joke? Is it a law thing?..
What???
Executive Orders are closer to press releases than they are to law. They can say pretty much anything - whether those things are enforceable or even consistent with reality is up to the courts.
Government employees and institutions are bound to act according to executive orders. They are binding. You’re correct they can be challenged in court. EO need to fit under existing laws. EO are often instructions on how to implement an existing law.
Press releases are not binding and might even be outright lies.
Only binding to the federal government though, states, private organizations, and individuals can wipd their ass with them.
To be precise, it’s like your CEO sent out an email telling everyone they must do something or another. Deviating from them without a court or law backing you up means your services will no longer be required, but generally shouldn’t be facing criminal charges.
Executive Orders are more like a corporate memo to the government. It’s not a law passed by congress, but it can direct the government in how to administer existing laws or regulations.