Trump Proposes 'New America' as New Name for New Mexico

In a surprising statement, President Donald Trump has suggested that New Mexico could be renamed 'New America,' igniting a swift backlash from state officials. This controversial proposal was made on September 6, 2026, through a post on social media where Trump claimed that the name change would add prestige to the state.

Trump's suggestion followed a recent order he signed to rename Lake Ontario as 'Lake America' amid ongoing tensions with Canada. The President's social media post noted, "Many people suggested changing the name of New Mexico… to NEW AMERICA. So much more prestigious and beautiful for the people of that potentially incredible State. Wow, I Love It!!!" The White House even shared a graphic showing the name change.

Governor's Firm Rebuttal

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham wasted no time in dismissing the idea, stating during an interview with Fox News that the state's name has historical significance, existing long before the United States was founded. She emphasized that the name is not open for discussion, asserting, "It's been ours since before the United States existed." The Governor also suggested that Trump's comments were a distraction from pressing national issues, including rising gas prices.

Recent Trends in Name Changes

This proposal is not the first time Trump has floated controversial name changes. Just days prior, he had suggested renaming the Strait of Hormuz to 'Trump Strait' amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions with Iran, although he later hinted that he may not have been serious about that idea. In 2025, Trump renamed the Gulf of Mexico as the 'Gulf of America' on his first day back in the White House, a move that was also met with disapproval from Mexico.

Source: www.thehindu.com