MEXICO CITY — At her daily news conference on Wednesday, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum showed a colonial-era map of North America – on which much of what later became the United States is still shown as part of Mexico.
“Mexican America” said the president, suggesting that the entire region should return to the 17th century classification, which is translated on the map as “Mexican America.” “That sounds beautiful, doesn’t it?”
It was a sneaky swipe at President-elect Donald Trump, who a day earlier proposed renaming the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America.
“What a beautiful name,” Trump said. “And it’s appropriate.”
Trump's proposed geographical switch was met with widespread ridicule in Mexico and throughout Latin America.
“Obviously the Gulf of Mexico is recognized by the United Nations,” Sheinbaum said, rejecting the idea of renaming the distinctive body of water – which has borne Mexico's name since colonial times.
But Sheinbaum, a scientist not known for her sense of humor, wasn't done yet. She also chose a playful tone to counter another Trump claim.
He claimed that Mexico is “essentially run by the cartels.” … This can’t happen. Mexico is really in trouble. Lots of trouble. Very dangerous place.”
“With all due respect,” Sheinbaum said the president-elect had been misinformed.
According to Sheinbaum, Trump apparently had the impression that the country was still being ruled by former President Felipe Calderón and his former security chief Genaro Garcia Luna. The latter is now serving a 38-year prison sentence in the USA for collaborating with the Sinaloa Cartel.
“But no,” Sheinbaum said. “The people rule in Mexico.”
Special correspondent Cecilia Sanchez Vidal contributed to this report.