Trump Says Google “Kisses My Ass”

At a rally on October 17 in Highland Heights, Kentucky, Donald Trump claimed that Google would not have taken his call during his first term but now “kiss[es] my ass.” He made the remark while describing his second term as more powerful and influential.

Trump also cited his decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Ontario. His comments appeared to suggest that he personally persuaded Google to reflect the name changes in Google Maps.

That suggestion conflicts with Google’s explanation that it reflects official government sources, using the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) for the United States. The company said its updates follow a long-standing policy for bodies of water whose names differ by country.

The Verge reported that Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It also reported that Google and other Silicon Valley companies, along with Google CEO Sundar Pichai, had offered Trump gifts, compliments, and donations to projects he supports during his second term.