Amid Canadian Political Shakeup, Trump Suggests Merger to Solve Trade and Security Issues…reports Asian Lite News
In a surprising move, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has reignited his proposal to make Canada the “51st state of the United States” following the resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Trudeau, 53, announced on Monday that he will step down after 11 years in leadership, including nine as Prime Minister. His decision comes amid mounting pressure from within his ruling Liberal Party, driven by his waning popularity. Trudeau will remain in office until a new party leader is elected ahead of the upcoming general elections.
Capitalizing on the political unrest, Trump, 78, who has had a contentious relationship with Trudeau since his first presidency (2017-2021), renewed his controversial proposal just hours after the resignation announcement. Posting on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Many people in Canada love being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this and resigned.”
He continued, “If Canada merged with the US, there would be no tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be totally secure from the threat of Russian and Chinese ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!”
Trump has repeatedly floated this idea since meeting Trudeau in November 2024 at Mar-a-Lago. During the meeting, Trump reportedly referred to Trudeau as the “Governor of the Great State of Canada,” a sentiment he has echoed in several social media posts.
The Canadian government has yet to issue a formal response to Trump’s remarks, but the President-elect’s comments have already sparked renewed debate about the fragile state of U.S.-Canada relations.
Trump also criticized Trudeau’s administration for its perceived failures in curbing illegal migration and drug trafficking into the U.S. He warned of imposing a 25% tariff on Canadian imports if these issues are not addressed.
Highlighting security concerns, Trump cited a report from the Canadian Customs and Border Protection Service, which noted that 358 individuals on terror watch lists were apprehended while attempting to cross into the U.S. from Canada in the 2024 fiscal year. He attributed this to what he called Trudeau’s “lax policies” on national security.
Trudeau’s resignation concludes a challenging tenure, initially marked by high public approval and a global reputation as a progressive leader. However, rising living costs, crime, and dissatisfaction with quality of life eroded his support over time.
As Canada prepares for elections amid economic and political uncertainty, the Liberal Party faces the challenge of finding new leadership to steer the nation forward.
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