Google Maps now labels the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” for users located in the United States, following an executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump in late January.
The change applies only to U.S.-based users. Those in Mexico still see the traditional “Gulf of Mexico” name, reflecting the Mexican government’s stance. Meanwhile, users in other countries see a dual designation, with both names appearing: “Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America),” a method Google often uses in disputed territories.
Trump Declares ‘Gulf of America Day’
The decision was celebrated by Trump, who took to Truth Social to post a screenshot of the Google Maps update, expressing his enthusiasm for the change. He also proclaimed February 9th as “Gulf of America Day”, reinforcing his administration’s stance that the Gulf is an integral part of the U.S. economy, energy production, and tourism.
The official White House X (formerly Twitter) account also acknowledged the change, posting: “Gulf of America on @GoogleMaps”, further fueling discussion online.
Google Defends Name Change, Apple Maps Holds Firm
Google has justified the modification, stating that official government sources, specifically the U.S. Geographic Names Information System (GNIS), influenced the update. The company has previously used similar methods in politically sensitive areas where different countries claim ownership or use different designations for geographical landmarks.
However, the update is not universal—Apple Maps continues to display the traditional “Gulf of Mexico” for all users, regardless of location, showing a divergence between mapping platforms.
Mexico Pushes Back, Proposes Its Own Name Change
The renaming has sparked concern and backlash in Mexico, with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum responding by mockingly suggesting renaming the United States as “Mexican America”—a reference to a 17th-century map that depicted much of North America under that label.
The name change has also raised diplomatic concerns, with critics arguing that geographical names should not be altered for political reasons. Some worry that the move sets a precedent for future disputes over international landmarks and bodies of water.
Trump’s administration has previously advocated for renaming significant U.S. landmarks. The president has also expressed a desire to restore the original name of Mount McKinley, which was changed to Denali by Barack Obama in 2015 following requests from Indigenous communities.
As global reactions continue, the Gulf of America debate highlights how digital platforms, politics, and national identities are increasingly intertwined in shaping public perceptions of geography.
