In the wake of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation, President-elect Donald Trump has reignited controversy by doubling down on the idea of merging the United States and Canada. Though dismissed by many as a joke or mere political posturing, Trump’s comments, including a threat of “economic force” to push for annexation, have left experts debating his true intentions and their potential ramifications.
A Controversial History: Annexation Efforts Through Time
The notion of a union between the U.S. and Canada isn’t new—it has roots in early U.S. history. From the American Revolution’s invasion of Quebec to the War of 1812 and the ethos of Manifest Destiny, the U.S. has long had an eye on its northern neighbor. However, fears of annexation faded as the two nations grew into steadfast allies in the 20th century, bonded by mutual military efforts in global conflicts and economic cooperation through trade agreements like NAFTA and USMCA.
“Do we want to go back to 1812 or the 1860s? Maybe Trump does, but I’m not too sure Americans or Canadians do,” said Duane Bratt, a political science professor at Mount Royal University.
Canada’s Rejection of the 51st State Idea
Despite Trump’s claims, Canadian resistance to annexation is overwhelming. A recent Leger poll showed 82% of Canadians oppose joining the U.S., and Trump’s personal unpopularity among Canadians likely exacerbates the sentiment. In an October poll, roughly two-thirds of Canadians backed Vice President Harris over Trump in the U.S. presidential race.
Experts point to cultural and political differences as additional barriers. “Canada would be a Democratic stronghold,” said Bratt, highlighting the country’s progressive leanings compared to Trump’s right-wing politics. Canada’s constitutional monarchy and distinct identity, including its French-speaking province of Quebec, further complicate the feasibility of merging with the U.S.
Matthew Lebo, a political science professor at the University of Western Ontario, added, “The idea that Quebec, which hasn’t even signed the Canadian Constitution, would want to join the American Constitution is ludicrous.”
Is Trump Serious? Or Just Trolling?
Trump’s remarks have been widely interpreted as trolling. Canadian officials, including former Trudeau adviser Gerald Butts, dismissed the comments as empty rhetoric designed to provoke. But Trump’s Tuesday press conference raised eyebrows when he shifted from jesting about “Governor” Trudeau to hinting at using economic pressure to achieve his goals.
“Because Canada and the United States, that would really be something,” Trump said. “You get rid of that artificially drawn line... and it would also be much better for national security.”
His suggestion that hockey legend Wayne Gretzky should run for prime minister—while quipping the title should be “governor” instead—underscored the mockery many Canadians perceive in his statements. Yet Trump’s threat of tariffs and economic force suggests he might be testing the waters for a broader geopolitical strategy.
Trudeau’s Resignation and Canada’s Political Vulnerability
Trudeau’s resignation on Monday amid internal party frustrations and falling poll numbers has added complexity to Canada’s response to Trump. His departure leaves Canada politically vulnerable, with his successor facing a domestic leadership race while Trump threatens trade tariffs and economic destabilization.
“This is not a good time for Canada to be rudderless,” Bratt said. “We’re dealing with a domestic political crisis at the same time that one of our closest allies is posing an existential threat.”
Trump has linked Trudeau’s resignation to his annexation remarks, claiming that “many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st state” and suggesting Trudeau resigned under pressure from his comments. The claim has been widely disputed.
Trump’s Broader Ambitions: Greenland and the Panama Canal
Canada isn’t the only target of Trump’s expansionist rhetoric. During the same press conference, he reiterated interest in acquiring Greenland and controlling the Panama Canal, citing economic and national security imperatives. While he ruled out military action against Canada, he left open the possibility for Greenland and Panama, further fueling speculation about his ambitions for his second term.
“By making threats like this, he might be scaring some companies about whether they’re choosing to invest in Canada versus the United States,” said Lebo, suggesting Trump’s rhetoric could have tangible consequences even if annexation is far-fetched.
Conclusion: A Tense and Uncertain Future
As Canada transitions to new leadership and Trump prepares to retake the Oval Office, the U.S.-Canada relationship faces a pivotal moment. While most Canadians—and many Americans—dismiss the idea of annexation as unrealistic, Trump’s unpredictability and willingness to upend norms keep the conversation alive.
