The renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America by President Donald Trump has triggered a wave of online backlash, geopolitical criticism and debate over its implications.
The change, enacted via executive order, has already been reflected on some U.S.-based versions of Google Maps, while remaining the Gulf of Mexico elsewhere.
Why It Matters
Trump’s move to change the gulf’s name has resulted in much debate. Critics argue that the renaming is symbolic at best and does little to address pressing domestic and international concerns. Others view it as part of a broader effort by Trump to emphasize nationalism and “American greatness.”
The change is also affecting digital platforms.
“People using Maps in the U.S. will see ‘Gulf of America,’ and people in Mexico will see ‘Gulf of Mexico.’ Everyone else will see both names,” Google confirmed in a statement.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also announced it will update its data and charts to reflect the renaming.
Google Maps
Why Did Donald Trump Change the Gulf of Mexico’s Name?
In his executive order, Trump stated that the change was meant to “honor American greatness” and reflect the “historical and economic contributions” of the U.S. in the region. Some political analysts say the move aligns with Trump’s broader nationalist messaging.
What To Know
The decision has sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of the move argue it reasserts U.S. influence, while detractors see it as unnecessary and potentially damaging to diplomatic relations with Mexico.
The renaming also coincides with Trump’s efforts to reverse other historical name changes. His executive order also calls for Denali, the highest peak in the U.S., to be returned to its former name, Mount McKinley, which was changed under the Obama administration.
Searches for “Gulf of America” T-Shirts Are Already on the Rise
Online retailers have wasted no time capitalizing on the controversy, with merchandise featuring ‘Gulf of America’ slogans appearing on platforms like Amazon and Etsy.
Social media trends also indicate a growing interest in purchasing shirts, hats and mugs bearing the newly coined name.
What People Are Saying
President Donald Trump posted to his Truth Social account on Monday in response to Google Maps’ update: “GULF OF AMERICA!”
Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy posted to X (formerly Twitter): “In line with my commitment to restoring sanity to @USDOT, the FAA will resume using the term ‘Notice to Airmen’ instead of ‘Notice to Air Missions.’ Also, pilot charts will now reference the Gulf of America and Mt. McKinley. Thanks to President Trump, we are taking back our language, our history, and our country.”
A Reddit user by the name u/czr84480 posted about the Google Maps change: “Everyone should give it a review.”
Another Reddit user by the name u/City_Of_Champs posted about the topic: “Thank goodness the real issues are finally being addressed.”
One Redditor by the name u/Bamboozleprime responded to u/City_Of_Champs and posted:“This is the point tho. He knows he can’t deliver actual results like lowering inflation or increasing the quality of life for his supporters, so he just ‘conquers’ dumbass hills like this and his supporters eat it up as ‘winning.’ It’s the same thing with going on a crusade against marginalized people. He’s not making life better for his supporters, but rather he’s making life miserable for some of the most vulnerable subsets of society which again his supporters eat up as ‘winning.'”
An X user who uses the handle @Advil posted: “hahahaha they really changed it to the gulf of america on google maps. we truly live in the dumbest simulation ever.”
TikTok influencer @carterpcs posted: “I seriously thought that the Gulf of America stuff was a joke, but apparently after 500 years, you can just change the name.”
Another TikTok influencer by the name @TyBottOfficial posted: “I don’t know, it just kinda seems like if they were going to change any name, like maybe they would change New Mexico, like why were they coming for the Gulf of Mexico?”
Memes About the Gulf of America Name Change
The internet has responded to the renaming with a flood of memes, ranging from historical comparisons to humorous takes on Trump’s branding efforts.
Many social media users have likened the move to past political rebranding attempts, while others have joked about whether other major geographic locations could be renamed next.
One popular meme featured an altered world map where oceans had been renamed with American-centric titles.
What Happens Next
The long-term impact of Trump’s executive order remains unclear. While digital platforms and some U.S. agencies are adopting the change, it remains to be seen whether the name will gain broader acceptance or face legal and diplomatic pushback.
Mexico has yet to formally respond to the decision, though experts predict tensions could rise over the symbolic gesture.