Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized President-elect Donald Trump’s proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.” During a press conference Wednesday in Mexico City, Sheinbaum humorously suggested renaming the United States as “Mexican America.”
Sheinbaum’s remarks came after Trump’s press conference on Tuesday, where he previewed plans for his upcoming second administration, including the controversial proposal to rename the Gulf. Trump defended the idea by pointing to trade imbalances and security issues with Mexico. He described the renaming as “appropriate” and said it would reflect America’s influence over the region.
Sheinbaum, joined by Mexico’s former culture minister Jose Alfonso Suarez del Real, referenced a 1607 map during her press conference. Suarez del Real argued that “Mexican America” was historically used to describe much of the North American continent. The map was displayed as evidence of Mexico’s historical claims over its cultural and geographical heritage.
Trump did not provide specifics on how or when the name change would be implemented but shifted his focus to immigration and drug trafficking concerns. He criticized Mexico for failing to curb illegal crossings and promised to impose significant tariffs if the issues persist. Trump also implicated Canada in enabling illegal border crossings, emphasizing his administration’s intent to strengthen U.S. borders.
Sheinbaum dismissed Trump’s assertion that Mexico is “run by cartels,” stating that the Mexican people are in control of the nation. Despite her criticisms, Sheinbaum expressed hope for productive relations with Trump’s administration, describing his communication style as distinct but manageable.
The Gulf of Mexico, shared by the U.S., Mexico, and Cuba, holds strategic importance for trade, energy, and environmental concerns. Trump’s proposed renaming highlights deeper geopolitical tensions between the neighboring countries, already strained over immigration, trade, and crime issues.
