Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s newly elected president, didn’t hold back after Donald Trump proposed renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”
In her daily press briefing, Sheinbaum countered with a sarcastic proposal to rename the entire continent “América Mexicana” – or “Mexican America” – drawing on an 1814 Mexican founding document for inspiration.
“That sounds nice, no?” Sheinbaum quipped, standing before a world map, her tone laced with irony. She also reminded her audience that the Gulf has been called the Gulf of Mexico since 1607, underlining the historical context Trump’s idea seemed to ignore.
Trump Pushes for ‘Gulf of America’ Amid Immigration Criticism
Trump, who is set to begin his second term on January 20, announced his controversial plan during a press event. “The Gulf of America has a beautiful ring to it,” he stated, linking his proposal to broader criticism of Mexico. Trump accused Mexico of being controlled by drug cartels and failing to prevent mass migration to the US.
Sheinbaum fired back with a sharp rebuttal: “In Mexico, the people rule.” Her statement highlighted the tension between the two leaders as they prepare to navigate the already complicated US-Mexico relationship.
A New Dynamic: Sheinbaum’s Approach to Trump
The exchange has cast light on the evolving dynamics between Sheinbaum and Trump. While her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador (Amlo), managed to forge an unlikely rapport with Trump through shared populist rhetoric, Sheinbaum’s approach appears more grounded in humor and assertive diplomacy.
“Humor can be a good tactic,” said Brian Winter, vice-president of the Council of the Americas. “It projects strength, which is what Trump responds to. But President Sheinbaum knows it won’t work on everything. Serious issues like immigration, drugs, and trade will require substantive engagement.”
Sheinbaum’s Stance on Tariffs and Immigration
Sheinbaum has already signaled a firm stance on some of Trump’s more aggressive policies. In response to Trump’s pitch for a 25% tariff on Mexican imports, she warned of reciprocal measures. “Such taxes are unacceptable and would cause inflation and job losses for both countries,” she said.
On immigration, however, Sheinbaum has struck a more conciliatory tone. Initially advocating for deportations directly to migrants’ home countries, she has since indicated Mexico’s willingness to accept some deportees from other nations, albeit with conditions.
Setting the Stage for Future Relations
Sheinbaum’s sharp wit and measured responses suggest she is prepared to handle Trump’s brash diplomatic style with a mix of humor and pragmatism. As her presidency unfolds, observers are keen to see whether her approach will solidify Mexico’s standing or further strain relations with its northern neighbor. One thing is certain: the Sheinbaum-Trump dynamic promises to be anything but dull.
