US President Donald Trump has renewed attention on his disagreement with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum over the Gulf of Mexico's renaming. During recent campaign appearances, Trump imitated what he described as Sheinbaum's reaction and repeatedly commented on her voice and appearance. The remarks have drawn renewed attention ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
Trump Imitates Claudia Sheinbaum at Rally
Speaking at campaign events, Trump described an alleged telephone conversation with Sheinbaum following his decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.
He imitated the Mexican president asking him to reconsider the change and portrayed her as surprised by the decision.
Trump repeated the story during several October appearances. His account of the private conversation has not been independently confirmed by Sheinbaum.
Gulf of Mexico Renaming Controversy
Trump signed an executive order in January 2025 directing US federal agencies to adopt the name Gulf of America.
The decision changed the terminology used by the US government but did not establish a new internationally recognised name for the body of water.
The Gulf borders the United States, Mexico and Cuba, making its naming a matter of regional and international interest.
Trump has defended the decision as a reflection of American influence in the region.
Trump Praises Sheinbaum's Voice and Appearance
Alongside his imitation, Trump repeatedly described Sheinbaum as a beautiful woman with an attractive voice.
He made similar remarks during a rally in Alabama on October 2 and another campaign appearance in South Carolina on October 21.
His comments focused on Sheinbaum's appearance and speech rather than the substance of Mexico's diplomatic objections.
Trump has also described the Mexican president positively, saying he likes her despite their disagreement over the name.
Mexico Rejects Gulf of America Name
Sheinbaum has consistently opposed the US decision to rename the Gulf, maintaining that its established international name remains Gulf of Mexico.
Mexico's position distinguishes between the naming practices of US federal agencies and terminology recognised internationally.
The disagreement reflects broader questions about how neighbouring countries handle shared geographic landmarks.
Although the two governments continue to cooperate on important bilateral matters, the naming issue remains unresolved.
Trump Remarks Ahead of US Midterms 2026
Trump's latest campaign appearances come as Americans prepare for the November 3 congressional midterm elections.
The president has been travelling across several states to campaign for Republican candidates as both major parties compete for control of Congress.
His repeated references to Sheinbaum have brought the Gulf naming dispute back into the campaign conversation.
The episode also highlights how personal remarks by national leaders can attract attention alongside substantive debates about diplomacy and international relations.
