Mexico's President Counters Trump's Gulf Renaming Proposal with "América Mexicana"

In response to Donald Trump's proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America," Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has countered with a proposition to rename North America as "América Mexicana" or "Mexican America."

During her daily press briefing, Sheinbaum presented a global map and dryly suggested the name change, referencing an 1814 document that predated Mexico's constitution and referred to the continent as "América Mexicana." She added with a sarcastic tone, "That sounds nice, no?"

Sheinbaum further emphasized that the ocean basin bordered by the US Gulf Coast, Mexico's eastern states, and Cuba has been known as the Gulf of Mexico since 1607.

Trump, who is set to be sworn in for a second term on January 20th, announced his intention to rename the Gulf as the "Gulf of America," claiming it has a "beautiful ring." He also stated that Mexico needs to stop allowing millions of people to enter the US and asserted that the country is run by drug cartels.

Sheinbaum responded tersely to Trump's accusations, stating, "In Mexico, the people rule."

This exchange raises questions about how Sheinbaum will handle Trump's strong-handed diplomatic approach, including promises of mass deportations and hefty taxes on trading partners like Mexico.

While Sheinbaum's predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, was able to build a relationship with Trump, it remains unclear whether Sheinbaum, Mexico's first female president, will be able to do the same.

Analysts suggest that Sheinbaum's use of humor in response to Trump's proposal could be a strategic move, projecting strength and potentially appealing to Trump's sensibilities. However, they also acknowledge that serious engagement on issues like immigration, drugs, and trade will be crucial in navigating the relationship between the two countries.

Sheinbaum's remarks follow other responses to Trump's proposals, including warnings against imposing tariffs on Mexican imports and a more concessionary tone on immigration.