On Monday, US President Joe Biden announced that two nuclear-powered aircraft carriers will be named after former presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Clinton, a Democrat, served as the 42nd president from 1993 to 2001. He was followed by Bush, a Republican, who was president from 2001 to 2009.

Biden said in a press release, "I am proud to announce that the next two Gerald R Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carriers will be named for two former presidents -- Bill Clinton and George W Bush." He further said, "When I personally delivered the news to Bill and George, they were deeply humbled. Each knows firsthand the weight of the responsibilities that come with being commander-in-chief. And both knew well our duty to support the families and loved ones who wait and worry for the safe return of their service member." 

President Biden stated that construction of the future USS William J Clinton (CVN 82) and the future USS George W Bush (CVN 83) will begin in the coming years. Once finished, these ships will be part of the most capable, flexible and professional navy ever deployed. “They will be crewed by sailors who hail from every corner of the US, and who will sail these ships into harm's way, defending US interests overseas and safety at home,” he added. According to Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, aircraft carriers are the backbone of the United States naval forces, guaranteeing the nation can project power and provide combat capability anywhere, at any time, to defend "our democracy."

"These two future carriers are named after historically significant commanders-in-chief who served our country with determination and dedication," he said. "The future USS William J Clinton and the future USS George W Bush will serve as lasting tributes to each leader's legacy in service of the US. Like their namesakes, these two future carriers, and the crews who sail them, will work to safeguard our national security, remind us of our history, and inspire others to serve our great republic," he added.