Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reportedly told a group of business leaders that he believes former U.S. President Donald Trump may have been serious about annexing Canada. According to Trudeau, Trump suggested making Canada the “51st state” to gain access to the country’s critical minerals.
Trudeau’s remarks, made during a closed-door session at a Canada-U.S. Economic Summit in Toronto, were partially picked up by a microphone and later reported by Canadian media. The summit, hosted by the federal government’s advisory council on Canada-U.S. relations, brought together over 100 business leaders and policy experts.
The comments came amid escalating trade tensions after Trump threatened to impose a 25% tariff on nearly all Canadian exports to the U.S., excluding energy products, which would face a lower 10% rate. Although these tariffs were set to take effect earlier in the week, Trump granted a 30-day extension to Canada and Mexico in exchange for increased efforts to enhance border security.
Trump repeatedly floated the idea of Canada becoming a U.S. state on his social media platform, Truth Social, and in public statements. He even referred to Trudeau as “Governor Trudeau” and suggested that statehood could help Canada avoid the tariffs.
During a press briefing at the Oval Office earlier that week, Trump said, “What I’d like to see—Canada become our 51st state.”
Trump allegedly first mentioned annexation during a December dinner with Trudeau, shortly after his initial tariff threats. While Canadian officials initially dismissed the comment as a joke, Trudeau’s recent remarks indicate a potential shift in how Canada views such statements seriously.
A January Ipsos poll revealed that 80% of Canadians oppose becoming part of the U.S. and would vote against it in any referendum. Additionally, such an action would require approval from both chambers of the U.S. Congress, needing at least 60 votes in the Senate alone.
Trump’s threats have caused concern across Canada, as approximately three-quarters of the country’s exports are destined for the U.S. Steep tariffs on these goods could severely harm Canada’s economy and lead to widespread job losses. In response, some provincial leaders have launched “buy local” campaigns to encourage Canadians to support domestic businesses, while others have cancelled trips to the U.S. in protest.
At the same time, Canadian officials have sought to strengthen ties with the U.S., particularly around energy and critical minerals. Energy Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, who recently travelled to Washington, D.C., for meetings with American counterparts, described closer collaboration as beneficial for both nations.
During the summit, Trudeau acknowledged the challenges ahead, saying Canada might face a more strained political relationship with the U.S. over the long term. He emphasized the importance of bolstering Canada’s economy and trade relationships to prepare for the future.
Trudeau Leaving Behind a Broken Legacy
As Justin Trudeau steps down, he leaves behind a Canada marked by deep divisions and widespread criticism. Many view him as one of the country’s least popular prime ministers, with dissatisfaction growing nationwide.
His approach to major issues, such as soaring housing prices, rising inflation, and contentious government spending, frustrated ordinary Canadians and political rivals. Scandals, including the WE Charity affair and accusations of favouritism, further damaged public trust.
Trudeau was often accused of being disconnected from everyday struggles, focusing more on appearances than tackling challenges faced by working families and the middle class. Policies like the carbon tax and tighter firearm regulations sparked anger, particularly in rural areas where his support hit record lows.
Despite multiple election wins, many voters felt they lacked better options rather than strongly supporting his leadership. As Trudeau exits the stage, debates over the impact of his time in office are likely to persist. Did his vision improve Canada, or were critics justified in their frustration? While the answer may unfold over time, the discontent among his detractors is undeniable.
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