President Donald Trump’s executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” has ignited a multifaceted debate involving media organizations, corporations, and international relations.
Media Response and Press Freedom Concerns
The Associated Press (AP) has chosen to continue using “Gulf of Mexico,” citing its historical and international recognition. This decision led the White House to bar AP journalists from the Oval Office and Air Force One, actions the AP condemns as violations of First Amendment rights. Other major news outlets, including The New York Times and The Washington Post, have supported the AP’s stance, emphasizing the importance of editorial independence and press freedom.
Corporate Adoption and Public Opinion
Several corporations, such as BP, Chevron, Shell, Google, Microsoft, and Apple, have adopted the “Gulf of America” designation in compliance with the executive order, aiming to align with the U.S. government’s stance and maintain favorable relations. However, public opinion largely opposes the renaming; polls indicate that approximately 70% of Americans are against the change.
International Relations and Legal Implications
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has criticized the renaming, asserting that Mexico maintains sovereignty over significant portions of the Gulf. She has threatened legal action against companies like Google if they continue to use “Gulf of America” in their platforms, emphasizing that international recognition still favors “Gulf of Mexico.”
