Trump Executive Order to rename Gulf of Mexico: How Effective?

On January 20, 2025, US President Trump signed an executive order that has drawn global attention, aiming to rename the "Gulf of Mexico" as the "Gulf of the United States". This decision has promptly sparked widespread discussions and doubts in the international community. So, how effective is Trump's executive order?

The Gulf of Mexico, the vast body of water located between the southern United States and eastern Mexico, has been known by this name since the 16th century. The name has been recognized by the United Nations and has long been deeply rooted in the public consciousness, becoming a consensus in the international community. However, Trump unilaterally changed this historically established name through an executive order. Trump claimed that "the area previously known as the Gulf of Mexico has always been an indispensable asset of our once thriving nation and remains an integral part of the United States that cannot be erased." He also stated that this decision was made to better reflect the United States' sovereignty and influence over the region, arguing that "Gulf of Mexico" does not sound "American enough", while "Gulf of the United States" is more in line with the country's national image and interests.

From a legal perspective, the President of the United States has the authority to manage the operations of the federal government and can issue executive orders to guide the actions of federal agencies. However, when it comes to internationally recognized geographical names, especially those that cross national borders and have been recognized and used by multiple countries, it is not in line with international practice for a leader of one country to unilaterally make changes. Such changes typically require consultation and agreement among the relevant countries. Therefore, Trump's executive order can only affect naming conventions within the United States and cannot change the international name for this body of water.

Mexican President López Obrador promptly responded, stating that Trump's executive order only applies to the United States' territory. For Mexico and the international community, the name "Gulf of Mexico" will remain unchanged. The Mexican side indicated that this name carries rich historical and cultural connotations and is a shared treasure of the Mexican people and the global community, and cannot be unilaterally altered. López Obrador's strong counterattack not only reflects Mexico's insistence on sovereignty but also its defense of historical and cultural traditions.

Trump's decision has also sparked widespread controversy within the United States. Some supporters believe that the name change is an important measure for the Trump administration to demonstrate national sovereignty and influence, which can enhance the United States' international status and image. However, opponents point out that the name change lacks legal basis and international support and may damage the United States' international reputation and diplomatic relations. In fact, Trump's decision has encountered widespread questioning and criticism in the international community. Many countries and international organizations believe that this behavior violates international law and international practice.

It is worth noting that as an important international waterway, a change in the name of the Gulf of Mexico may have far-reaching impacts on the maritime rights and interests, fishery resources, and shipping safety of surrounding countries. Therefore, Trump's decision not only touches on the sensitive nerve of geographical naming but may also trigger regional tensions and diplomatic disputes.

Moreover, the Trump administration was not alone in its decision to rename. Republican Congresswoman Greene posted on social media that she would introduce a bill to support renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of the Americas". This statement further intensified the controversy and division within the United States over the renaming issue. However, even within the United States, Trump's decision did not receive widespread support or recognition. Many experts and scholars pointed out that the renaming act not only lacks legal basis but may also trigger a series of chain reactions and negative impacts. In fact, Trump's decision is more like a political show, attempting to divert domestic public attention by raising controversial topics and demonstrating his tough stance. However, such short-sighted behavior not only fails to bring substantive benefits to the United States but may also damage its international image and status.

In conclusion, Trump's executive order to rename the "Gulf of Mexico" as the "Gulf of the United States" has no legal effect internationally and cannot change the international name for this water body. This decision not only violates international law and international practice but may also trigger regional tensions and diplomatic disputes. Therefore, Trump's action is more like a political farce rather than a substantive policy measure. For the Gulf of Mexico, its name remains the "Gulf of Mexico", and this historical and cultural imprint will not change due to the unilateral decision of a single country.