AP to Acknowledge 'Mount McKinley' Change but Retain 'Gulf of Mexico' Name
The Associated Press has agreed to acknowledge President Trump’s decision to rename Alaska’s Mount Denali as Mount McKinley. However, the AP will not adopt the new name for the Gulf of Mexico.
President Trump recently signed an executive order to restore the original name of the 20,000-foot peak to Mount McKinley. While this move has faced opposition from various lawmakers, including Sen. Lisa Murkowski and Rep. Nick Begich from Alaska, the AP recognizes the president’s authority on federal geographical names.
Controversy and Tradition
The mountain was initially named Mount McKinley in 1917 to honor President William McKinley. However, in 2015, former President Obama changed it to Denali, respecting the traditions of Alaska Natives. Trump’s executive order aims to revert the name to Mount McKinley, emphasizing American greatness.
Despite the name change for the mountain, the AP has decided to maintain the Gulf of Mexico’s current name. The decision is rooted in jurisdictional concerns, as the Gulf’s borders extend to Mexico, where the U.S. president does not have authority.
AP Stylebook Guidelines
The AP’s stance on naming conventions extends beyond Mount McKinley and the Gulf of Mexico. The organization prioritizes clarity and consistency in geographic names for global audiences. While respecting Trump’s choice for Mount McKinley, the AP continues to refer to the Gulf of Mexico by its longstanding name.
Moreover, the AP acknowledges the presence of multiple names for certain bodies of water, such as the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez in Mexico. By adhering to established naming practices, the AP ensures that its content remains accessible to diverse readers worldwide.
The AP Stylebook serves as a valuable resource for journalists and writers, setting standards for grammar and style in the industry. With a broad readership spanning over 100 countries, the AP’s commitment to accuracy and inclusivity remains unwavering.
