Donald Trump’s proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” has stirred controversy and captured attention online. The idea has been met with both support and backlash, raising questions about national pride and international relations.

The renaming idea picked up steam after President Trump signed an executive order to ‘restore names that honor American greatness’ and quickly faced significant criticism for being seen as provocative toward Mexico and other Gulf-bordering nations.

The order states that it’s “in the national interest to promote the extraordinary heritage of our Nation and ensure future generations of American citizens celebrate the legacy of our American heroes” and so the naming of the US’ “national treasures, including breathtaking natural wonders and historic works of art, should honor the contributions of visionary and patriotic Americans in our Nation’s rich past”.

North America’s highest peak was in the order, with Trump suggesting it be renamed to to ‘Mount McKinley’ to honor President McKinley. It was also suggested that the Gulf of Mexico be renamed to the ‘Gulf of America’.

Trump stated in the order that: “The Gulf will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping America’s future and the global economy, and in recognition of this flourishing economic resource and its critical importance to our Nation’s economy and its people, I am directing that it officially be renamed the Gulf of America.”

Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, has since addressed the order, stating (via DW): “He says that he will call it the ‘Gulf of America’ on its continental shelf. For us it is still the Gulf of Mexico and for the entire world it is still the Gulf of Mexico.”

The Gulf of Mexico is not just a name; it represents centuries of history, international cooperation, and geographical ties.

Shared by the United States, Mexico, and Cuba, the Gulf is a vital resource for fishing, oil production, and international trade. Renaming it would likely require significant diplomatic negotiations, as it involves shared territorial waters and agreements under international law.

Critics of the idea have expressed concern about its implications. “This is another attempt to undermine historical and cultural ties for the sake of hyper-nationalism,” said one political commentator.

Others noted that energy should be focused on preserving the Gulf’s ecosystem, which has suffered from oil spills, overfishing, and the ongoing effects of climate change.

Hillary Clinton was even spotted laughing as Trump announced the idea, with a video going viral on X.

Meanwhile, proponents of the renaming argue that it could serve as a symbolic gesture of American strength and independence.

While the idea remains highly speculative, the conversation highlights deeper discussions about patriotism, symbolism, and how nations choose to represent themselves.