New York Governor Slams Trump’s ‘Lake America’ Stunt, Noting Great Lakes Acronym Went from ‘HOMES’ to ‘SHAME’

**Trump’s Controversial Executive Order Renames Lake Ontario to Lake America**

In a surprising move, former President Donald Trump announced on August 26 that he would be changing the name of Lake Ontario to “Lake America” through an executive order. This decision has drawn swift condemnation from New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, highlighting the ongoing trade tensions between the United States and Canada.

Trump’s announcement was made in a video clip posted to TikTok, where he explained his intentions with a mix of bravado and humour. “We’re gonna make a little change, we’re gonna call it something different than Lake Ontario,” he stated. Following his proclamation, he signed the executive order the next day, claiming it was a change he had been contemplating for some time.

The renaming comes amidst heightened diplomatic tensions that have been largely influenced by recent trade discussions. Trump accused Canada of taking advantage of the U.S. in trade negotiations, suggesting that the country should no longer be treated as if it were a state within the Union. “Canada has been ripping us off for a long time on trade,” he said during the signing event held in the Oval Office.

Governor Hochul swiftly responded to the decision with a post on social media, expressing her dismay at the name change. She referenced the mnemonic “HOMES,” used to remember the Great Lakes—Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior—before adding sarcastically that Trump had transformed it into “SHAME”. Her comments underscore the sentiment from many who view the renaming as an unnecessary and disrespectful alteration to the region’s history.

The historical significance of Lake Ontario is not lost on Canadian leaders, particularly Prime Minister Mark Carney. He took to social media to highlight the lake’s origins, which stem from the Wendat word “Ontari’io,” meaning “the lake is beautiful, the lake is big.” This name, he argued, has been in existence for over four centuries, predating both the formation of Canada and the establishment of the United States.

Carney’s statement included a reminder of the enduring cultural and historical roots tied to Lake Ontario, asserting that the name should reflect its legacy rather than being altered for political theatrics. “Naming reality means calling it Lake Ontario – then, now and always,” he concluded, reinforcing the idea that the lake’s identity should not be compromised.

Trump’s penchant for renaming significant geographical features is not a new phenomenon. In January 2025, he renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America,” showcasing a pattern of behaviour that critics argue is more about stirring controversy than enacting genuine policy changes.

The timing of Trump’s announcement raises questions about its broader implications amidst ongoing discussions of trade tariffs and national identity. Recently, Trump threatened to impose a hefty 50% tariff on Canadian automobiles and parts starting in 2027, which has only intensified the already fraught relationship between the two nations.

While some may support Trump’s desire to assert American identity through such dramatic rebranding, many view it as an attempt to distract from pressing political issues. The debate about the name change has already ignited further dialogue about national pride, heritage, and the importance of respecting historic names and their meanings.

In an era defined by polarising politics and growing division, Trump’s initiative to rename Lake Ontario could serve as a reminder of the complexities inherent in discussions about national identity and history. As reactions continue to unfold, it remains to be seen how this executive order will impact U.S.-Canada relations moving forward. The international community is also closely watching to see if this move will be followed by further changes or if it will remain an isolated incident in a climate of political turbulence.