NJ legislator suggests changing the name of Delaware Bay to ‘The Bay Of New Jersey’

New Jersey Republicans Aim to Rename Delaware Bay

Republican lawmakers in New Jersey are pushing for legislation that would rename Delaware Bay to “New Jersey Bay.” This proposal was presented by GOP State Senator Michael Testa on Thursday, and aims to ensure that state agencies adopt the new name in all official communications, including publications, signs, and websites. Additionally, relevant federal agencies would be informed of this change.

Testa, who represents Cape May County, emphasized the importance of the bay for local fishers, saying, “I’m looking at robust fisheries – commercial fishing and the recreational industry in New Jersey.” It seems there’s been a long-standing discussion about why the bay, where they fish, is labeled as Delaware Bay.

He added a light-hearted remark on social media, declaring, “It’s time to make New Jersey great again!”

Delaware Bay has been known by that name since 1610, originally named after Thomas West, the third baron who governed the Virginia colony. It’s regarded as a vital resource for tourism, commerce, and travel in New Jersey.

This legislative effort appears to follow a recent order signed by former President Trump, which changed the name of the northern Gulf of Mexico to the “US Gulf.” This order, while lauded by some, has sparked debates surrounding territorial names and their significance within the U.S. In fact, last month, U.S. House Republicans even passed legislation to codify Trump’s name change.

Interestingly, Trump’s declaration also led to lighthearted responses, such as Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont jokingly proposing “Connecticut Sound” as a name correction for Long Island Sound.