NewsFOX 13 Tampa BaySeptember 1, 2026Hillsborough
President Trump orders federal renaming of Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' amid trade dispute
President Trump has signed an executive order requiring the U.S. Department of the Interior to refer to Lake Ontario as 'Lake America' in all federal usage. This action coincides with the implementation of new tariffs on Canadian goods and follows a similar order to rename the Gulf of Mexico.
Read the full story at FOX 13 Tampa BayWhy It Matters
The changes the official designation of a major international body of water for U.S. government purposes, reflecting a shift in diplomatic relations and trade policy between the United States and Canada.
Key Facts
- President Trump signed an executive order to rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' for U.S. federal usage.
- A Reuters/Ipsos poll found 63% of Americans oppose the renaming of Lake Ontario, while 14% support it.
- The same poll found 57% of Americans oppose higher tariffs on Canadian goods, with 20% in support.
- U.S. tariffs on certain Canadian imports took effect on Aug. 22, following an announcement on July 20.
- Canada is scheduled to implement retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. on September 8, 2026.
- The renaming order does not affect how Canada or international organizations refer to the lake.
- The name 'Ontario' has been used for over 400 years and has Indigenous origins.
- President Trump previously ordered the Gulf of Mexico to be renamed the 'Gulf of America' for U.S. government use.
Who's Mentioned
locationLake Ontario“The body of water subject to the renaming order”personDonald Trump“President of the United States who issued the executive order”locationCanada“Trading partner and party to the trade dispute”organizationU.S. Department of the Interior“Agency directed to implement the name change”organizationReuters/Ipsos“Polling organization that conducted the survey”