Mexican President Mocks Trump

Special Poll

Responding to President-elect Trump’s recent proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America,” Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum presented a counterproposal with historical flair. During a press conference, Sheinbaum humorously suggested renaming North America as “Mexican America,” referencing the region’s historical designation on maps predating modern borders.

Trump, in a broad discussion about U.S. territorial ambitions—which included Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal—had advocated for renaming the significant body of water between the U.S., Mexico, and Cuba. In contrast, Sheinbaum highlighted the long-standing international recognition of the “Gulf of Mexico” name, confirmed by global entities such as the United Nations.

Adding a touch of historical context, Sheinbaum referred to a 1607 map showing North America labeled as “Mexican America” and mentioned the Apatzingán Constitution, an early 19th-century document that envisioned the territory of “América mexicana.” This document, while never officially adopted, reflected early national identity and territorial claims during Mexico’s struggle for independence from Spain.

Sheinbaum’s comments also alluded to the ongoing rhetorical exchanges typical of relations between the U.S. and Mexico, reminiscent of interactions under her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador. Obrador, known for his nationalistic stance, often engaged in verbal sparring with Trump to bolster domestic support, a tactic Sheinbaum seems keen to continue.

This exchange comes as Trump makes controversial remarks about borders and trade relationships ahead of his second inauguration, suggesting a more integrated market with Canada and criticizing Mexico’s governance. In retort, Sheinbaum humorously remarked that Trump might be misinformed about Mexico’s current leadership, quipping that he was under the impression that Felipe Calderón, a figure from Mexico’s political past, was still in power. This back-and-forth underscores the complex and often contentious dynamics between the neighboring countries as they navigate their shared history and future relations.