Early Wednesday, President-elect Trump criticized Canada, questioning why the U.S. provides financial subsidies to its northern neighbor and proposing that Canada consider becoming the 51st state. On Truth Social, he stated, “No one can answer why we subsidize Canada to the tune of over $100,000,000 a year? Makes no sense! Many Canadians want Canada to become the 51st State.”
He elaborated on the potential benefits, suggesting that such a move would lead to huge tax savings and improved military protection, calling it a “great idea” and repeating, “51st State!!!” Last month, the president-elect announced plans to impose a 25 percent tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, along with an additional 10 percent tariff on products from China.
Trump calls Trudeau the “governor” of the “Great State of Canada” in jest
He claimed this strategy would apply pressure on these trading partners to enhance efforts against the flow of fentanyl and other drugs into the U.S. while also strengthening border security. After issuing his tariff threat, he mentioned on Truth Social that he had a phone conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who later traveled to Mar-a-Lago for a meeting with Trump.
Following their discussion, Trump remarked, “I made it very clear that the United States will no longer sit idly by as our Citizens become victims of this Drug Epidemic, caused mainly by the Drug Cartels, and Fentanyl pouring in from China. Too much death and hardship!”
The meeting was viewed positively by both leaders. However, Trump’s threats regarding tariffs have led to political upheaval in Ottawa, resulting in Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s resignation this week, which she attributed to the tariffs. In response, the president-elect described her actions as “totally toxic.” In a lighthearted moment, he referred to Trudeau as the “governor” of the “Great State of Canada.”
