Trump Renames Gulf of Mexico
Trump’s Controversial Decision to Rename the Gulf of Mexico
On January 20, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order officially renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. The U.S. Department of the Interior announced the change on January 24, 2025, stating that it was part of an initiative to “restore American greatness” (doi.gov).
Trump emphasized that the Gulf of Mexico has played a crucial role in the U.S. economy, serving as a major hub for fishing, trade, and offshore energy production. He also declared February 9 as “Gulf of America Day,” a new annual observance meant to commemorate the renamed body of water.
Google Maps Updates Gulf of Mexico Name to Gulf of America
The Gulf of Mexico has been changed to the Gulf of America on Google Maps in the U.S.
Following the executive order, Google Maps updated its platform to reflect the name change. However, the update varies depending on the user’s location:
- U.S. users now see the body of water labeled as Gulf of America, in alignment with Trump’s executive order.
- International users continue to see the Gulf of Mexico as the primary name, with the Gulf of America appearing in parentheses (blog.google).
Google stated that it updates place names based on official government sources and that the changes align with the U.S. Geographic Names Information System’s recent update.
Mexico Rejects the Renaming of the Gulf of Mexico
The renaming has not been recognized internationally. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum issued an official statement rejecting the name change, emphasizing that the Gulf of Mexico has been recognized globally for centuries and will continue to be used outside the United States.
In response to Google’s update, Sheinbaum sent a formal request to Google, urging the company to restore the original name on its platform. Additionally, Mexico has contacted international geographic organizations, including the United Nations, to prevent further adoption of the new name (naplesnews.com).
Public Reaction to the Gulf of Mexico Name Change
The renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America has sparked widespread debate across social media, news outlets, and academic circles. Supporters of Trump’s decision argue that the change reinforces American control over its waters, while critics believe it disregards historical and international perspectives.
Many experts assert that international maps and official records will continue to use the name Gulf of Mexico, regardless of the U.S. government’s decision. The controversy has also raised concerns about the role of digital platforms like Google in shaping geopolitical narratives.
Will the Gulf of Mexico Name Change Become Official Internationally?
For now, the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico remains a domestic policy within the United States. International organizations, including the United Nations and the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), still officially recognize the name Gulf of Mexico.
It is unlikely that other countries will adopt the new name, but if more digital platforms like Google Maps update their labeling, it could influence future discussions on geographic naming conventions.
Official Sources
- U.S. Department of the Interior: Press Release on the Name Change
- Google Maps Blog: Gulf of America Name Change Update
- Naples News: Mexico Rejects Name Change
FAQs About the Gulf of Mexico Name Change
1. Why did Trump rename the Gulf of Mexico?
Trump claims that renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America acknowledges its economic and historical importance to the United States. He also believes it will strengthen national pride.
2. Has Google Maps permanently changed the Gulf of Mexico’s name?
As of now, Google Maps has updated the name for U.S. users, while the Gulf of Mexico remains the primary name internationally. Google has not confirmed if the change is permanent.
3. Does Mexico recognize the name “Gulf of America”?
No. The Mexican government has rejected the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, stating that the name has been used for centuries and remains globally recognized.
4. Is “Gulf of America” an official international name?
No. International geographic organizations, including the United Nations, still recognize the Gulf of Mexico as its official name.
5. What impact does this change have?
The renaming is largely symbolic and political, with no legal effect on international maps or geographic records. However, it has caused diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Mexico.