Debate Arises Over Trump’s Proposal to Rename New Mexico ‘New America’
Gregg Hull, a Republican gubernatorial candidate in New Mexico, has rejected President Donald Trump’s suggestion to rename the state as ‘New America’. Trump made the suggestion on Truth Social, claiming the name change would enhance ‘value and prestige’ and lead to increased incomes and home values. He also implied that such a change could rectify election integrity issues in New Mexico.
Responding on X, Hull maintained that ‘New Mexico does not need a new name.’ He emphasized the state’s strong identity, rooted in its culture, landscape, and resilient population. Hull stated, ‘That identity is never up for negotiation. EVER,’ and noted that the focus should be on jobs, taxes, family-friendly economic policies, energy independence, and cost relief.
This proposal from Trump is not new. In September, he shared an image depicting the state’s name altered to ‘New America’. During his presidency, Trump also attempted to rename the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Ontario, and proposed renaming the Strait of Hormuz amid tensions with Iran.
New Mexico’s Political Climate
Hull’s remarks come in the context of midterm elections, which traditionally challenge the ruling party. In the 2024 presidential election, Trump was defeated in New Mexico by Vice President Kamala Harris by approximately 6%.
Trump’s approval ratings on economic, immigration, and job issues, as well as on the conflict with Iran, have declined amidst widespread economic concerns. In New Mexico, gas prices exceed the national average, with a gallon costing $4.3465 compared to the national average of $4.2953.
The Albuquerque Journal criticized Trump’s renaming proposal as simplistic. In an op-ed by Ryan Boetel, he advised against engaging with what he termed as Trump’s distracting tactics.
Reactions from New Mexico Politicians
Democratic Senator Ben Ray Lujan emphasized New Mexico’s historical name, which predates the United States. Lujan stated, ‘We are New Mexicans…proud of our name, proud of our home, and we’re keeping both.’
Governor Michelle Grisham dismissed Trump’s proposal on X, questioning the motive behind it. She highlighted recent state achievements like universal child care and health care subsidy replacements. Grisham asserted, ‘New Mexico was New Mexico long before the United States existed and we’ll be New Mexico forevermore.’
Additionally, Grisham mentioned secure elections and ongoing support for working families as indicators of successful Democratic policies.