In a move that has sparked significant controversy, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed strong dissatisfaction with Google’s decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.” During a press conference on Thursday morning, President Sheinbaum conveyed her disapproval, emphasizing that such a decision could have legal ramifications. The issue arises from an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump, which officially redesignated a portion of the gulf. According to Sheinbaum, this order exclusively pertained to the United States continental shelf and did not encompass the entire gulf.
Sheinbaum made it clear that Mexico is prepared to take legal action if necessary. “We do have a dispute with Google at the moment,” she asserted, adding that a civil suit could be on the horizon. Her warning to Google was direct: “Check the order that was issued by the White House and signed by President Trump. You will see that it does not refer to the entire Gulf, but to the continental shelf.”
Sheinbaum has corresponded with Google through a formal letter to protest the name change but has been met with resistance. Her resolve remains firm, as she remarked, “If they continue to insist, we will too. We are even thinking of a lawsuit because they are even naming Mexican territory, which is our continental shelf.”
In compliance with Trump’s executive order, technology giants like Google and Apple have already implemented the renaming on their mapping applications, leading to widespread adoption. Google clarified their stance, stating, “People using Maps in the US will see ‘Gulf of America,’ and people in Mexico will see ‘Gulf of Mexico.’” They also mentioned that individuals in other regions would see both names.
JUST IN: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum threatens Google with lawsuit if the company does not revert name "Gulf of America" back to "Gulf of Mexico" – Reuters pic.twitter.com/meslzIISFd
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) February 13, 2025
The executive order, titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness,” provides insight into Trump’s motivations. It declares that the Gulf of Mexico is an “indelible part of America” and aims to reflect this in its name. It argues that the Gulf has historically been a valuable resource for America, citing its significance in early trade and global commerce. Furthermore, it highlights the extensive U.S. coastline along this body of water and underscores the Gulf’s role in the nation’s future economic prosperity. Trump’s decision is guided by the notion of honoring what he perceives as a core aspect of American history and greatness.
In another related decision, Trump renamed Denali Mountain to Mount McKinley, a tribute to the 25th president of the United States. This reflects his admiration for McKinley and his intent to preserve and honor America’s historical figures.
In supporting Trump’s efforts to rename the Gulf, it is essential to recognize the value he places on American heritage. By restoring the Gulf’s name to reflect its perceived historical importance, Trump reaffirms his commitment to emphasizing America’s legacy and greatness.
h/t: Steadfast and Loyal
