Trump’s Proposal to Rename Gulf of Mexico Raises Eyebrows

Trump’s call to rebrand the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America" has ignited controversy, highlighting the complexities of geographic naming rights and international relations.

January 8, 2025, 1:01 p.m. ET

President-elect Donald J. Trump has put forward a controversial proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America,” drawing a mix of reactions from world leaders and the public. Speaking in a press briefing, Trump described the name change as having a "beautiful ring," suggesting it is part of a broader foreign policy strategy. His suggestion sparked laughter among comedians and fierce criticism from Mexican officials.

President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico swiftly responded by showcasing a historical map from 1607, asserting the Gulf’s long-standing ties with Mexico and quipping, “Why don't we call it Mexican America? It sounds pretty, no?” This highlights the tension surrounding national identities and their historical narratives.

Legally, whether Trump can implement this name change is debatable. While the President has some authority to propose changes to geographical names under U.S. jurisdiction—citing the precedent of President Obama’s 2015 renaming of a mountain in Alaska—there are limitations. John Nyberg, director of the International Hydrographic Organization, explained that there is currently no international agreement governing the naming of maritime areas, complicating issues of recognition across borders.

The U.S. Board on Geographic Names has stringent criteria for implementing name changes, emphasizing the need for local acceptance and compelling reasons. Critics argue that the proposal could inflame regional tensions and underscore the complexities surrounding geographical nomenclature internationally.

Water bodies around the world have long been subjects of naming disputes. The gulf separating Saudi Arabia and Iran is caught in a tug-of-war, with Iran advocating for the “Persian Gulf” and Saudi Arabia favoring the “Arabian Gulf.” Meanwhile, the water separating Japan and South Korea faces similar contention, known as the Sea of Japan by Japan and the East Sea by South Korea. The South China Sea also draws numerous names reflecting varying territorial claims, further illustrating the politically charged nature of these disputes.

Trump's suggestion has not only provoked reactions within the U.S. but has also stirred historical and political sensitivities on an international scale, showcasing the complexity of naming rights that delve deep into cultural and historical contexts. As the conversation continues, it remains to be seen if this proposal will gain traction or fade away amidst a multitude of pressing issues.