Fact Check: Google renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.

Fact Check: Google Renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America

What We Know

The claim that Google has renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America is accurate. Following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, the Gulf of Mexico was officially designated as the Gulf of America in U.S. government documents. This change was implemented through the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS), which is managed by the U.S. Department of the Interior (NPR, BBC). Google Maps updated its labeling to reflect this change for users in the United States, while users in Mexico continue to see the original name, Gulf of Mexico (Reuters, CNN).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim comes from multiple reputable sources, including news outlets like NPR, BBC, and CNN, which confirm that Google has indeed updated its maps to reflect the new name for U.S. users (NPR, BBC, CNN). The change aligns with the executive order that mandates the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which was part of a broader initiative to restore names that reflect American pride (NPR).

However, the renaming has sparked controversy and criticism, particularly from Mexico, where officials argue that the U.S. has no legal right to unilaterally change the name of a body of water that has been known as the Gulf of Mexico for centuries (BBC, CNN). The Associated Press has opted to retain the original name in its style guide, indicating that the name change is not universally accepted (NPR, CNN).

The sources used in this analysis are credible and provide a balanced view of the situation. They include major news organizations that adhere to journalistic standards, ensuring that the information presented is accurate and reliable.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. Google has officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America for users in the United States, following an executive order from President Trump. While the name change has been implemented in U.S. government documents and on Google Maps, it remains a contentious issue, particularly with international implications and differing opinions on the legitimacy of the renaming.

Sources

1. Google Maps to rename 'Gulf of Mexico' to 'Gulf of America' ...
2. 'Gulf of America' is officially on Google Maps
3. Google Maps updates Gulf of Mexico name for US users
4. Gulf of Mexico naming controversy
5. Google Maps users in U.S. will see Gulf of Mexico renamed ...
6. 'Gulf of America' arrives on Google Maps | CNN Business
7. Gulf of America name change in the U.S. — what you'll see ...
8. Google changes name of Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America ...