Hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump relitigated his pitch for a US-Canada merger, adding Canada as the 51st state of the United States. Trump, 78 years old, fired off on his social media as he pitched and touted his own controversial proposal over trade deficits and security concerns down to economic advantages for Canadians.
Trump Suggests US-Canada Merger, Wants Canada as the 51st State
Justin Trudeau, 53, quit on Monday following mounting pressure from his ruling Liberal Party as its popularity continues to dwindle. Though he remains prime minister until a new leader is selected, his resignation has given Trump more fuel for the long-held concept of combining Canada with the United States.
According to Trump, on Truth Social, many Canadians LOVE being the 51st State. He argued a merger would end tariffs, reduce taxes, and provide Canada with much better security. “Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!,” he ended.
Trump has been toying with the idea of annexing Canada since his November 5 victory speech at Mar-a-Lago, repeatedly mentioning it in his posts. On Monday, he tied Trudeau’s resignation to Canada’s alleged reliance on trade subsidies and U.S. economic support.
Little Reaction From Canada
Thus far, Canadian leaders have not publicly responded to the remarks made by Trump. The latter has been belligerent in tone, stating he will impose 25% tariffs on Canadian imports if Toronto cannot resolve the entry of illegal migrants and drugs into the U.S.
Trump had in the past been derogatory regarding Trudeau, addressing him as the “Governor of the Great State of Canada.” Their strained relations go back to his first term as president in 2017-2021.
Around the corner are the Canadian general elections, and the thought of joining the United States is far-fetched. However, Trump’s words continue to ignite debate on trade, security, and North American relations.
Also, see: Watch: Justin Trudeau’s resignation speech in full
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