In a renewed proposal, former US President Donald Trump has suggested renaming the state of New Mexico to “New America.” Trump asserts that this change would boost national pride and enhance property values and incomes. He made this proposal via a social media post on October 19, emphasizing that the state’s name should reflect its American identity.
Trump’s proposal has been met with criticism from New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. She dismissed the idea, highlighting the state’s historical significance and expressing concern over turning the name into a political issue. Governor Lujan Grisham stated that her administration is focused on pressing matters such as healthcare, housing, childcare, and education access.
This is not the first time Trump has floated the idea of renaming New Mexico. In September, he shared an altered map using the name “New America” while endorsing a Republican congressional candidate. Trump has previously suggested that residents should have the final say on any potential name change.
The proposal is part of a broader trend of geographical renaming initiatives during Trump’s second term, such as renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” and restoring the name Mount McKinley to Alaska’s Denali. However, no official steps have been taken to change New Mexico’s name.
In his social media post, Trump also raised questions about the integrity of elections in New Mexico, alleging electoral misconduct without providing evidence. This adds another layer of controversy to the proposal, further polarizing opinions on the matter.