Donald Trump sends clear message to Canada as he claims it will become the ‘greatest state’ of the US
President Donald Trump has once again floated the idea of Canada joining the United States as its 51st state, claiming it could become “one of the great states anywhere.” During a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the Oval Office on March 13, Trump teased the possibility, even suggesting that Canada could keep its national anthem, “O Canada,” if it were to become part of the U.S.
Trump’s comments come amid escalating trade tensions between the two nations. The U.S. has imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, including steel and aluminum, prompting retaliatory measures from Canada. Ontario Premier Doug Ford even threatened to hike electricity prices or cut off power to 1.5 million U.S. residents in Minnesota, New York, and Michigan.
Despite the friction, Trump remains steadfast in his vision of Canada as a U.S. state. He argued that Canada “only works as a state” because the U.S. spends $200 billion annually to subsidize it. “It’s so perfect as a great and cherished state,” Trump said. “Keeping ‘O Canada,’ the national anthem. I love it, I think it’s great, keep it. But it’ll be for the state, one of our greatest states. Maybe our greatest state.”
Trump also emphasized the geographical and cultural ties between the two nations, describing the U.S.-Canada border as an “artificial line” drawn through a shared landscape. “We would form the most incredible country visually,” he said.
The president’s remarks have sparked both amusement and concern, particularly given the political and logistical implications of such a merger. If Canada were to join the U.S., its population of nearly 42 million would make it the largest state, surpassing California. This would significantly alter the political landscape, with Canada potentially wielding substantial influence in presidential elections and congressional representation.
Trump also revisited his interest in acquiring Greenland, citing international security as a key reason. “I think it’ll happen,” he said, addressing Rutte. “We need that for international security, not just security—international.”
While Trump’s comments are unlikely to result in immediate action, they underscore his unconventional approach to diplomacy and trade. The idea of Canada as the 51st state remains a provocative talking point, reflecting Trump’s broader vision of reshaping North America’s geopolitical landscape.
