Mexican President Proposes Renaming the U.S. in Response to Trump’s Suggestion to Change Gulf of Mexico’s Name
Trump has suggested renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the ‘Gulf of America.’
On Wednesday, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed that the United States should also consider a name change following President-elect Donald Trump’s proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America.”
While gesturing towards areas that are now the United States, Mexico, and parts of Canada, Sheinbaum proposed that North America be renamed “América Mexicana,” which means “Mexican America.”
She mentioned that a foundational document from 1814, which predates Mexico’s constitution, referred to the region in that manner.
“That sounds nice,” Sheinbaum remarked.
The 62-year-old climate scientist then criticized Trump, claiming he was out of touch with current realities.
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“I believe they misinformed President Trump, he thinks Felipe Calderon is still the president,” Sheinbaum said, referencing the former conservative leader who served Mexico from 2006 to 2012.
The Gulf of Mexico borders several U.S. states, including Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, in addition to Mexico and the island of Cuba.
“We are changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America; it has a lovely ring to it,” Trump commented. “The Gulf of America covers a vast area. What a beautiful designation. And it’s fitting. It’s fitting.”
Trump Claims Mexico is ‘Run by Cartels’
Trump also stated that Mexico “must halt the flow of millions of people” entering the U.S. and described the country as “effectively governed by the cartels,” labeling it a “very dangerous place.”
“We carry a substantial deficit with Mexico, and we provide significant assistance to them,” he remarked.
Sheinbaum dismissed Trump’s assertions made during the Wednesday press conference, including the claim that drug cartels are in control of the country.
“In Mexico, the people have authority,” she asserted.
In November 2024, Trump announced plans for significant new tariffs on Mexican imports unless the country strengthens its measures on border security and drug trafficking.
He issued comparable warnings to neighboring Canada.
Sheinbaum reacted to Trump’s threats by indicating that Mexico would implement countermeasures.
She later revealed that she had a constructive conversation with Trump, during which they discussed options for “enhancing cooperation on security matters” and addressing the fentanyl crisis, among other critical issues.
Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
