Map App Boss Reveals Stunning Surge After Defying Trump
Key Points:
- MapQuest experienced a significant surge in downloads and usage, surpassing 1.5 million downloads in under a week, after refusing to change Lake Ontario's name following an executive order by Donald Trump renaming it "Lake America."
- The company posted a map on X reaffirming Lake Ontario's original name and launched an online tool allowing users to rename the lake themselves, continuing a similar initiative started after Trump's earlier renaming of the Gulf of Mexico.
- MapQuest's general manager, Doug Berger, described the rise in app usage as "completely shocking," noting active user engagement and requests for new features, emphasizing the company's focus on serving its users rather than making a political statement.
- A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll showed 63% of Americans disapprove of Trump's renaming of Lake Ontario, with only 14% in support, reflecting widespread public opposition to the change.
- Despite criticism from Eric Trump, MapQuest celebrated its 30th anniversary and positioned itself as a nostalgic and trusted brand, committed to providing accurate geographic information amid political controversies.