Trump’s plans to rename the gulf appear to be part of a broader offensive against Mexico, calling the nation "very dangerous" and "in a lot of trouble," citing drug trafficking and illegal immigration. However, most drug trafficking from Mexico is aimed at fulfilling consumer demand from Americans.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum responded to U.S. President Donald Trump's effort to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America — that he can call it whatever he likes as long as its his country's territory.