President Trump's declaration to change the names from "Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America" and "Denali to Mount McKinley" seems to be a symbolic move to emphasize 'American greatness' and historical figures. However, many may wonder how far this can actually be pushed and whether it will have any effect.

The indigenous name of this mountain, the highest peak in Alaska, was 'Denali,' but in the 1890s it was federally named 'Mount McKinley' after the 25th President William McKinley.

Since then, the Alaska state government and indigenous groups have consistently demanded that the original name Denali be used, and in 2015, during the Obama administration, the Secretary of the Interior exercised authority to change the name from Mount McKinley to 'Denali' in the federal geographic naming system. This was a moment of long-held hope realized for the residents of Alaska and indigenous groups.

So, is there a possibility that the name will revert back to Mount McKinley in the future? At that time, politicians from Ohio (McKinley's hometown) strongly opposed the Obama administration's decision and attempted legislation to "restore the name." However, since then, there have been no substantial bills passed or strong movements. The changed federal designation is difficult to overturn.

Even if President Trump issues an executive order in 2025, reversing an already established name is not easy. Moreover, the majority of the Alaska state government and local residents have welcomed the name 'Denali,' and it has been officially registered in the federal geographic naming system, so if a change is forced, there is a high possibility of strong backlash from local politicians, indigenous groups, and environmental and historical preservation organizations.

This issue is sensitive as it involves historical respect and local identity. Previously, politicians from Ohio (McKinley's hometown) attempted to "restore the McKinley name," but it did not cause a significant stir. Since Denali is already the official designation and local sentiment leans towards 'Denali,' it will not be easy to change it back in reality.