[larrytown]

There are currently nine aircraft carriers named for former presidents of the United States, while a tenth is now under construction.

Off the subject, but this has been a truly detrimental trend of the 20th century - the deification of the American 'little emperors'. It started with coinage and currency, and that's where it should start ending.

[Rainwave]

Is there a ‘USS Trump’ yet?

[rlmorel]

I agree. Naming capital ships after politicians is an abomination.

The “USS John Stennis”? Really? (I know damn well who Stennis was, but naming a carrier after him?)

[the OlLine Rebel]

I have many problems with naming them for presidents - especially, notice, most are RECENT presidents.

Yes, it puts too much emphasis on the importance of these people elected by the nation for a short time.

But it also makes one cringe at at least half of them, based on names we despise. FDR, God help me. Never mind the Kennedys.

Additionally, it is just lame. Why not something more descriptive and exciting?

Not to mention it may not mean much at all to many foreigners.

[virgil]

I’d like some of the old names to return to the list. Yorktown, Lexington, Bunker Hill, Hornet, Saratoga. Name ships for cities, states, war heroes and famous battles. Name them after some of the most famous naval aircraft - like Dauntless, Corsair. But Samuel Gompers? Really?

[frog in a pot]

... this has been a truly detrimental trend of the 20th century - the deification of the American 'little emperors'... it should start ending.

Agreed

If it is built with federal taxpayer funds, designation ought to be limited to the names of Americans who gave their lives in the service of the nation, as determined by a bipartisan committee (likewise at the state or local level).