President Trump issued an Executive Order titled “Honoring the American History of the Great Lakes and Renaming Lake Ontario as Lake America.” He claims that because the deepest parts of the Lake are within U.S. territory and the country holds most of its volume, he can change the name without approval. Despite this assertion, 55 percent of the lake’s surface area lies in Canada, with the boundary running through its center.
A YouGov poll indicates only 19 percent of Americans support Trump’s decision, reflecting discontent with this move against Canada’s interests. Critics point out that the disapproval might be legally unfounded. According to the poll, Trump’s overall approval stands at 36 percent, suggesting that the public’s focus on this issue contrasts with other critical matters. This includes the military casualties in Iran, immigration detention numbers, inflation due to tariffs, and Trump’s alleged corrupt dealings, among others.
Trump cites a federal law granting the Secretary of the Interior and the Board on Geographic Names the authority to standardize geographic nomenclature. This law mandates the decisions should serve the federal government and public interest. The Board, established in 1890, comprises members from several federal agencies.
Cornell law professor Michael Dorf suggests the law demands more than adhering to Trump’s orders, questioning whether changes serve public interests. He argues that Burgum’s actions could be illegal without a proper inquiry. Previously, Trump unilaterally changed the Gulf of Mexico’s name to the Gulf of America.
The Supreme Court’s decision has further shifted power dynamics by allowing presidents more control over agency leaders, affecting their autonomy. This change complicates any opposition to Burgum potentially not acting independently.
The possibility of Burgum facing lawsuits for not following procedural requirements seems weak. Additionally, President J. Conrad Seneca of the Seneca Nation claims Trump’s actions violate the 1794 Treaty of Canandaigua. However, Trump’s previous bypassing of Congress raises questions about adherence to treaties and laws.
The situation underscores concerns about American governance and legal standards. If the renaming of Lake Ontario catalyzes further awareness and demand for accountability, it might have broader implications. Kimberly Wehle, a fellow at the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study, highlights these issues through her work.