Controversial Name Change Proposal

President Donald Trump’s social media posts proposing to rename New Mexico as “New America” have faced criticism from the state’s largest newspaper, labeling it as an “elementary” joke by “immature people.” Trump shared an image showing “Mexico” crossed out with “America” on a New Mexico map, sparking reactions from state leaders. The White House’s account on X also shared Trump’s post.

In another post on Truth Social, Trump presented an AI-generated video of himself placing a sticker reading “America” over “New Mexico” on a sign, asserting that many suggested the name change due to the state’s notorious voting fraud history, believing it would be more “prestigious” for New Mexico.

Reaction from New Mexico’s Politicians

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham criticized Trump’s proposition, affirming New Mexico’s name is not up for debate and advocating for working families. She highlighted New Mexico’s Democratic leadership, emphasizing initiatives in childcare, education, healthcare, and housing.

Former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and other Democratic lawmakers expressed disapproval. Representative Melanie Stansbury claimed the state’s name encapsulates cultural heritage, while Senator Martin Heinrich reaffirmed calling landmarks by their true names. Representative Gabe Vasquez emphasized that New Mexico’s identity is non-negotiable.

Even Republican nominee Gregg Hull rejected the name change, standing by New Mexico’s historical significance.

Newsweek reached out to political parties in New Mexico and the White House for comments but received no response.

Albuquerque Journal’s Editorial

The Albuquerque Journal, through Ryan Boetel’s op-ed, criticized Trump’s proposal as unimaginative, questioning why it took him long to make it. Boetel advised New Mexicans not to be riled up, suggesting the president is seeking reactions amidst issues such as the Iran conflict, living costs, and falling approval ratings.

Boetel recommended ignoring Trump’s antics, deeming it “hilarious.”

Legitimate Renaming Process

Trump’s idea to rename New Mexico to “New America” inaccurately conveys the state’s origin. “Nuevo México” dates back to Spanish explorers in the 16th century, preceding Mexico’s modern naming. As per New Mexico’s constitution, any name change must originate within the state itself.

Other Name Changes Enacted by Trump

Trump enacted executive orders renaming geographical landmarks, notably the Gulf of Mexico to “Gulf of America,” and Lake Ontario to “Lake America”. Mexico opposed the Gulf name change, rejecting international recognition. Similarly, Trump acted unilaterally on Lake Ontario due to failed tariff negotiations with Canada.

Trump’s proposed name changes occasionally suggested attaching his name to them, like renaming the Strait of Hormuz to “Trump Strait.”

For further information on the controversy and political reactions, contact Newsweek editors John Fitzpatrick and Shakeema Edwards.