Polls Show Americans Reject Lake America Rename and Canada Tariffs

Key points

• A Reuters-Ipsos poll from late August found that 63% of Americans oppose the renaming of Lake Ontario to Lake America, with 65% of independents and 84% of Democrats also opposing the move.
• Support for the new 50% tariffs on $20 billion of Canadian goods is even lower, with 57% of Americans opposing the levies and only 20% in favor, according to the same polling.
• Apple and Google have updated their map labels to 'Lake America' for U.S. users, citing alignment with U.S. geographic naming systems, while MapQuest has refused to change the name, resulting in approximately one million new app downloads.
• The White House has dismissed the polling, with spokesperson Taylor Rogers stating that Canada has been a 'bad neighbor' and that the administration is protecting American industries and workers.
• A separate Economist-YouGov survey found that 68% of U.S. citizens oppose the name change, with 43% of 2024 Trump voters also disapproving of the executive order.

Background

The renaming of Lake Ontario to Lake America was announced in late August 2026 as part of a broader trade dispute with Canada, following the imposition of 50% tariffs on $20 billion of Canadian goods. This move echoes a previous, disputed renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America in January 2025. The current dispute has led to reciprocal tariffs from Canada and significant public backlash in the United States, with Democrats planning a bill to counter the executive order.

How outlets are covering it

Axios and New York Magazine highlight the stark contrast between public opinion and the White House's stance, with the latter defending the actions as necessary to protect American interests. New York Magazine emphasizes the unexpected surge in MapQuest's popularity as a result of its refusal to change the name, while Axios focuses on the broader public opposition to both the renaming and the tariffs. ABC News was unavailable for review, but the consensus among the available sources is that the public is largely opposed to the administration's actions, with even some Republicans expressing disapproval.

Why it matters

The public opposition to the Lake America rename and Canada tariffs could have significant implications for the 2026 midterm elections, as voters may view these actions as out of touch with their interests. The dispute also highlights the limits of unilateral branding in a bilateral trade feud and the potential for public backlash to influence policy decisions.

What to watch

The White House is expected to continue its stance on the Lake America rename and Canada tariffs, while Democrats may push for legislation to counter the executive order. The public's reaction to these actions could influence the outcome of the 2026 midterm elections, with voters potentially holding the administration accountable for its unpopular policies.