GEDDES, N.Y. — Republican Candidate for Governor Bruce Blakeman said President Trump was “kidding” when it comes to renaming Lake Ontario to Lake America.
CNY Central asked Blakeman if he was in favor of renaming Lake Ontario to Trump’s order.
“He’s kidding; it’s a joke,” answered Blakeman. “He’s not going to change Lake Ontario. He’s just tweaking the Prime Minister of Canada.”
Blake said the president has “no intention” of renaming Lake Ontario. He said, “That at least I know if.”
Blakeman pointed out that the lake was named by Native Americans. It roughly translates to “beautiful lake.” Blakeman said the government has to do a better job of maintaining a relationship with Native Americans in New York State. He called them hardworking people.
“They are patriotic and served in the military,” said Blakeman, adding that he met with their leaders.
President Donald Trump displays a signed executive order during an event in the Oval Office of the White House, August 27, 2026 in Washington (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
Trump signed the executive order Thursday directing federal agencies to refer to Lake Ontario as “Lake America.” The order applies to the federal government, but it does not require New York communities, Canada or the public to adopt the new name.
City of Oswego neighbors told CNY Central that they were not on board with the name change. Including one Trump supporter, Robert Code, who voted for Trump three times.
“I’ve been on his side all the way, right from day one, but I think he’s losing it here,” Code said.
Oswego County voted for Trump in 2016, 2020 and 2024.
Blakeman is currently the Nassau County Executive.