Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed Sunday that he jokingly suggested a trade involving Vermont or California in exchange for Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state during a conversation with President-elect Donald Trump.
Why It Matters
President-elect Trump has previously expressed interest in acquiring foreign territories to benefit the United States, including Greenland, the Panama Canal, and even Canada, which he described as a potential 51st state. Trump has argued that the U.S. subsidizes Canada “to the tune of $100,000,000 a year,” claiming, “Many Canadians want Canada to become the 51st state. They would save massively on taxes and military protection. I think it is a great idea. 51st State!!!” he wrote in a Truth Social post last month.
What To Know
Trudeau addressed the matter during an MSNBC interview with Jen Psaki, recounting his November meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago.
“It came up in passing, and we joked about it,” Trudeau said. “When I suggested trading Vermont or California for parts of Canada, he didn’t find it funny anymore, and we moved on.”
Trudeau said their conversation also included discussions about illegal immigration and the fentanyl crisis, which Trump has linked to Canada and Mexico. Trump has proposed a 25% tariff on both nations to combat these issues.
Trudeau commented, “If he goes forward with tariffs that raise costs for Americans, Canada will have to respond robustly. My focus is on addressing real issues rather than hypothetical ones like annexation.”
Trudeau also highlighted Canada’s efforts to reduce illicit drug flows and bolster border security, noting significant investments. He stressed Canada’s minimal role in U.S. fentanyl trafficking and illegal immigration.
What People Are Saying
Pierre Poilievre, leader of Canada’s Conservative Party and likely Trudeau successor, strongly opposed Trump’s suggestion. “Canada will never be the 51st state. We are a great and independent country. We’ve stood by the U.S. as allies and contributed billions to their economy and security,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
What Happens Next
Trump will take office on January 20, and his policies toward Canada—be it tariffs or negotiations—remain uncertain. Meanwhile, Trudeau has announced his intent to step down, with the Canadian Liberal Party preparing for an upcoming general election scheduled no later than October 2025. Parliament is in recess as the Liberals seek a new leader.
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