Trump Declares Gulf "Belongs to Us," Proposes 'Gulf of America'; Mexico's Sheinbaum Suggests 'Mexican America'

Jan 8, 2025, 04:45 PM

President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday proposed renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America," declaring it a "beautiful and appropriate name" and asserting that the Gulf "belongs to us." Criticizing Mexico as "a very dangerous place" governed by drug cartels and accusing it of allowing millions of migrants to cross into the United States, Trump reiterated his promise to impose significant tariffs on Mexico and Canada. In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum noted that the name "Gulf of Mexico" has been internationally recognized since 1607 and is acknowledged by the United Nations. In a press conference, Sheinbaum humorously suggested renaming parts of the United States as "Mexican America," referencing historical maps showing territories that once belonged to Mexico. She also remarked, "I believe President Trump was misinformed; in Mexico, the people govern." The exchange has heightened tensions between the United States and Mexico and sparked discussions about the feasibility and implications of altering geographical names.