The Ford-class carrier, currently identified by its hull number, CVN-81, was named USS Doris Miller in 2020 during Trump’s first term. Three people familiar with the internal discussions told CNN that the Navy has been considering a name change since earlier this year, while two said naming the carrier for Trump has been discussed. The Navy has reportedly stopped referring to the vessel internally as the USS Doris Miller, although no final name has been announced. The carrier's keel-laying ceremony is expected later this year, creating a deadline for the Navy to settle on its name.

Miller, a Black enlisted sailor from Waco, Texas, became known for his actions during Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Although he was not trained to operate an anti-aircraft gun, Miller took control of one during the attack after helping his wounded commanding officer and remained involved in efforts to rescue fellow sailors. He received the Navy Cross in 1942 and was killed the following year during the Battle of Makin. Naming CVN-81 after him would have made it the first U.S. aircraft carrier named for an enlisted sailor and the first named for an African American.