Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum took a jab at U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday, suggesting that the United States could instead be renamed “Mexican America” following Trump’s controversial vow to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”
During her regular morning press briefing, Sheinbaum showcased a 17th-century world map depicting North America labeled as “Mexican America.” She pointed out that the Gulf of Mexico is the internationally recognized name, sanctioned by the United Nations.
“Why don’t we call it (the United States) Mexican America?” Sheinbaum quipped. “It sounds nice, doesn’t it?”
She added, “He talked about names, so we’re talking about names too,” while maintaining her expectation of fostering “good relations” with Trump’s administration.
Trump’s Controversial Statement
Trump, who will be sworn in for a second term on January 20, announced on Tuesday his intention to rename the Gulf of Mexico. “The Gulf of America has a beautiful ring to it,” he said, adding that the change was “appropriate.”
The president-elect also took a hardline stance against Mexico, claiming that it is controlled by drug cartels and demanding stricter action to prevent illegal migration and drug trafficking into the U.S.
Sheinbaum Pushes Back
Sheinbaum dismissed Trump’s assertions, countering, “In Mexico, the people rule.” She also criticized his repeated threats to impose tariffs on Mexican imports and his plan to designate Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organizations.
Trump’s rhetoric has drawn widespread criticism ahead of his return to the White House, as tensions over trade, migration, and border security continue to strain U.S.-Mexico relations. Despite the provocative exchanges, Sheinbaum emphasized Mexico’s commitment to maintaining diplomatic dialogue with its northern neighbor.
