Trump revives US-Canada merger idea after Trudeau’s resignation
US President-elect Donald Trump reignited his call to make Canada the 51st state hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday. Trump, 78, who often clashed with Trudeau during his previous term, repeated his proposal on Truth Social, suggesting economic and security benefits from a potential merger.
Trudeau, 53, announced his resignation following pressure from his ruling Liberal Party. His growing unpopularity forced this decision ahead of Canada’s upcoming general elections. He confirmed that he would stay in office until the party selects a new leader.
Since his electoral victory in November, Trump has floated the idea of merging Canada with the US. He initially mentioned this during a meeting with Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago and has since reiterated it on social media.
“Many Canadians LOVE the idea of becoming the 51st state,” Trump wrote. He criticized Canada for trade deficits and subsidies, claiming they rely on US support. Trump argued that a merger would eliminate tariffs, reduce taxes, and secure Canada from threats posed by Russian and Chinese naval activity.
Trump also issued economic threats to push his proposal. He warned of imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian imports if Canada fails to curb illicit drug flows and illegal migration across its southern border with the US.
Trump’s social media posts frequently targeted Trudeau, mocking him as the “Governor of the Great State of Canada.” These remarks reflect Trump’s long-standing friction with Trudeau during his first term from 2017 to 2021.
The Canadian government has not formally responded to Trump’s statements. Trudeau’s resignation announcement has overshadowed these remarks, leaving the merger proposal largely unaddressed.
The US and Canada share one of the world’s largest trade partnerships and a long history of collaboration. However, disputes over trade, tariffs, and migration have occasionally strained relations. Trump’s merger idea adds a new layer of complexity to the bilateral dynamics.
Trump’s call for a US-Canada merger remains divisive. Critics in both countries view it as unrealistic, citing cultural, political, and economic differences. Supporters argue it could create a stronger North American alliance.
As Trudeau’s resignation reshapes Canada’s political landscape, Trump’s merger idea may resurface in bilateral discussions. For now, it remains a provocative but speculative proposal, reflecting Trump’s style of blending bold rhetoric with strategic pressure.
