White House Stands by Department of War Renaming
The White House defended renaming the Department of Defense as the Department of War, even though watchdogs warn it could cost taxpayers up to $125 million.
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) said most costs come from staff updating templates, websites, letterhead, signage, uniforms, and other materials. Implementing changes quickly could cost $125 million, while phasing them in gradually could lower costs to $10 million.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told News that the new name reflects the department’s focus on combat readiness. “Under President Trump, the now aptly named Department of War focuses on readiness and lethality,” Kelly said.
Costs Depend on Speed of Implementation
The CBO noted the final cost depends on how fast the department replaces materials and whether the renaming affects all affiliated defense agencies.
Officials based estimates on previous renaming projects, such as removing Confederate officer names from nine military bases between 2020 and 2023. Those projects cost up to $5 million per base, totaling $39 million.
Secretary Pete Hegseth’s office did not provide details on how the Department of War will implement the changes.
Historical Justification for the Name
The Trump administration framed the renaming as a return to the department’s original purpose. The White House stated the Founders chose “Department of War” to signal national strength and readiness.
“It was under this name that the Department of War, alongside the Department of the Navy, won the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II,” the statement said. Officials said the title shows the U.S. can fight and win wars, not just defend.
