In a surprising statement today, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to rename the Gulf of Mexico. "We are going to rename it the Gulf of the United States, which sounds fantastic. It covers a lot of area, the Gulf of the United States—what a beautiful name. And it's fitting," he declared during a press briefing at Mar-a-Lago.
Despite the outlandish nature of this idea, a Republican businesswoman and member of the House of Representatives from Georgia has revealed plans to introduce legislation to officially rename the Gulf of Mexico. "I will be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of the United States!" Marjorie Taylor Greene posted on her social media account.
This isn't the first expansionist remark Trump has made since his election victory last November. On Tuesday, he once again threatened to seek control over the Panama Canal, indicating he wouldn't rule out military or economic coercion to achieve this goal. He accused the Panamanian government of imposing excessive tariffs on American ships using the canal and criticized China for its influential role in the canal's management.
"The Panama Canal is crucial for our nation. It's operated by China. We handed it over to Panama, not China, and they've exploited that gift. That decision should never have been made," he emphasized.
In December, Trump expressed interest in purchasing Greenland, citing "national security reasons and freedom around the globe" as motivation. "The United States believes owning and controlling Greenland is essential," he asserted, a statement that was not well-received by the Danish government.
Trump's Controversial Proposals: Gulf of Mexico and More
Why does Trump want to rename the Gulf of Mexico?
Trump believes the name "Gulf of the United States" sounds better and is more appropriate for the area, reflecting a sense of national pride.
What other territorial interests has Trump expressed?
Trump has shown interest in reclaiming control over the Panama Canal and has also expressed a desire to purchase Greenland for national security reasons.
How has Trump's proposal to buy Greenland been received?
The Danish government did not react favorably to Trump's proposal, as it was seen as an overreach and an unwelcome suggestion.