Donald Trump once again raised the prospect of Canada joining the United States just weeks after he jokingly suggested the idea to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The President-elect has stood firm on America’s neighbors, calling on both Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to address illegal immigration on their respective sides of the border. Earlier in December, he threatened both with a 25% tariff, prompting in swift action by the Mexican Government while Trudeau personally visited Trump at Mar-a-Lago in the immediate aftermath.
In the early hours of Wednesday, Dec. 18, Trump hinted at the idea publicly following a previous private jibe to Trudeau. On Truth Social, Trump wrote: “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. They would save massively on taxes and military protection. I think it is a great idea. 51st State!!!”
Although Trump’s remarks were made in jest, the idea has gained intrigued as to whether Canada joining the United States would be possible. There would, of course, be constitutional matters at hand. Canada would require a significant constitutional amendment, requiring approval from the country’s House of Commons, Senate, and all provincial legislatures. The U.S., meanwhile, would require Congressional approval once Canada had applied for statehood.
Politically, however, the prospect obviously remains unlikely. Trump’s unlikely to admit a territory which overwhelmingly supported Kamala Harris in a hypothetical poll. Plus, who wants to fund their socialized medical system?
Economically, there’s little reason to unify the two nations. Both are members the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement, meaning it’s unnecessary to pursue a further degree of economic cooperation.
Nevertheless, the concept is interesting, and intrigued many on social media.
Canadians were less than supportive of the idea.
