Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum responded with sharp humor on Wednesday to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s suggestion to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”
During her daily press briefing, Sheinbaum stood before a world map and quipped that North America could be renamed “América Mexicana” (Mexican America), referencing an 1814 document predating Mexico’s constitution that used the term.
“That has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?” she said with a smirk, before pointing out that the Gulf of Mexico has carried its current name since 1607.
Her comments quickly went viral on social media, offering a glimpse into the dynamic that may define her relationship with Trump. Experts noted that humor might serve as a strategic tool for Sheinbaum in navigating Trump’s confrontational approach to diplomacy, which includes promises of mass deportations and trade penalties targeting Mexico.
“Humor can project strength and confidence, qualities Trump respects,” said Brian Winter, vice president of the Council of the Americas. “But it’s only a starting point; Trump’s administration will demand tough negotiations on critical issues like immigration, drugs, and trade.”
Sheinbaum’s approach reflects both defiance and pragmatism. She has already warned of reciprocal tariffs if Trump follows through on a proposed 25% tax on Mexican imports. Describing the measure as “unacceptable,” she cautioned it would hurt economies on both sides of the border, triggering inflation and job losses.
On immigration, Sheinbaum has taken a more measured tone, signaling a willingness to accept deportees under certain conditions. While initially opposing deportations to Mexico, she later suggested her administration might consider it for specific nationalities, potentially requesting compensation.
The contrast between Sheinbaum’s leadership style and that of her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, adds another layer of complexity. López Obrador, a leftist populist, managed to align with Trump’s agenda by cooperating on immigration enforcement. Whether Sheinbaum’s scientific and policy-driven approach will foster a similar rapport remains to be seen.
Her latest remarks, however, signal a readiness to stand firm while balancing diplomacy with humor — a preview of the challenges and strategies ahead in U.S.-Mexico relations.
