Key facts
- Donald Trump proposed renaming New Mexico to 'New America'.
- The suggestion has been met with significant backlash from New Mexico residents.
- Critics argue the proposal is racially motivated and targets minority populations.
- The state's history includes discrimination and resistance to statehood based on its demographic makeup.
- A constitutional amendment would be required for any name change, making it improbable.
Donald Trump's recent suggestion to rename New Mexico to 'New America' has ignited strong criticism from residents who view it as a racially charged attempt to erase the state's identity. Actor Steven Michael Quezada and non-profit executive Sarah Noss are among those expressing outrage, with Noss stating it feels like 'the whitewashing of our state' and that Trump likely associates the word 'Mexico' with people of color.
The proposal has reopened historical wounds in a state with a significant Latino and Native American population, which has historically faced discrimination. State historian Rob Martinez noted that New Mexico was denied statehood for over 60 years until 1912 due to its large Spanish-speaking and Native populations, who were considered 'mixed-blood Mexicans, fanatical Catholics and savage Indians.'
Martinez explained the state's name originated from Spanish settlers in the 1560s calling it Nueva Mexico, referencing Mexico City. He added that by the 1920s, campaigns existed to rename the state, including a push for 'Coolidge.'
Republicans, including gubernatorial candidate Gregg Hull and congressional candidate Greg Cunningham, have dismissed Trump's idea. Cunningham called the posts 'satire' and an attempt by Democrats to distract voters. Quezada likened Trump's actions to a losing entertainer trying to distract the audience. Any constitutional amendment to change the state's name is considered highly unlikely, especially with all statewide offices currently held by Democrats.
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