Trump signed an executive order directing the U.S. Geographic Names Information System to rename Lake Ontario as Lake America effective, a move tied to a 50% U.S. tariff on Canadian steel and Canada’s retaliatory tariffs.
Google Maps applied the name change for U.S. users on Saturday, while Ontario Premier Doug Ford unveiled a “Lake Ontario. Now and Always” billboard Saturday and Prime Minister Mark Carney reiterated Canada’s refusal, citing the Wendat origin of the name.
Google warned that U.S. users will see Lake America while Canadians and global viewers retain Lake Ontario, and Ontario agencies are reviewing map‑linked sites such as the LCBO after the name appeared on their portals to ensure correct identification.
Ford asserts the lake will remain Lake Ontario long after Trump leaves office, while Carney insists the Indigenous name cannot be altered by any executive order and the province continues to display signage and update official websites to preserve the historic designation.