Donald Trump calls for Canada to become the 51st state after Trudeau's resignation

In January 2025, following the resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Donald Trump, then president-elect, expressed his desire for Canada to join the United States as its 51st state. Trudeau's resignation was due to internal conflicts within the Liberal Party and was influenced significantly by Trump’s proposed 25% tariff on imports from Canada, which he asserted would help alleviate trade deficits. Trump made these remarks on his Truth Social platform, claiming that many Canadians would love the idea of being part of the U.S. and arguing that merging the two nations would eliminate tariffs, reduce taxes, and bolster security against foreign threats. Despite the entertaining remarks, the proposal has garnered mixed reactions. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre publicly rejected Trump’s suggestion, asserting Canada’s sovereignty and independence. Canada's political landscape was already unsettled prior to Trudeau's resignation due to challenges related to immigration and economic concerns, problems exacerbated by the fear of tariffs imposed by the incoming U.S. leadership. Trudeau had previously attempted to engage directly with Trump but faced mockery when Trump called him the ‘governor of Canada’ during a private dinner, reflecting an animosity that further complicated diplomatic relations. The notion of Canada becoming a U.S. state has historical precedent given Canada’s origins including a past under British rule and its gradual development as a self-governing entity separate from the U.S. post-independence in the 18th century, a narrative that Trump seems to overlook. While Trump’s suggestion may have been met with laughter or disdain in some circles, investor and TV personality Kevin O’Leary claimed that a faction of Canadians would be supportive of this idea, highlighting ongoing divisions in Canadian sentiment towards the U.S. As Canada braces for a potential shift in leadership with the upcoming elections, many citizens remain skeptical about any considerations of annexation, emphasizing national pride and political independence. Ultimately, Trump's proposal showcases the fragility of the relationship between neighboring countries and raises questions about how future U.S.-Canada relations may evolve especially under a new Canadian prime minister. The repercussions of such unorthodox suggestions from a leading U.S. figure significantly impact Canadian political discussions as the nation prepares for upcoming elections where these themes may surface in various forms.