Several major U.S. sports leagues include Canadian teams, with the NBA and MLB each hosting one franchise, while the NHL and MLS boast multiple Canadian-based teams. The United States and Canada share a long-standing history of peaceful cooperation and a strong alliance. However, Donald Trump has proposed a bold idea to redefine that relationship.
In a 3:30 a.m. Truth Social post last month, Trump revealed his vision of making Canada the 51st state of the United States.
He even claimed that “many Canadians” support the idea.
“No one can answer why we subsidize Canada to the tune of over $100,000,000 a year? Makes no sense! Many Canadians want Canada to become the 51st State. They would save massively on taxes and military protection. I think it is a great idea. 51st State!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Initially dismissed as an outlandish notion, the idea resurfaced when Trump reiterated it on Truth Social this Monday.
Once again, he insisted that many Canadians would welcome such a merger.
“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. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!” Trump wrote on Tuesday.
Of course, this proposal is wildly unrealistic. Such a drastic move would require far more than a simple executive order, and there’s no indication that Canada would even consider the idea.
Naturally, the suggestion sparked plenty of reactions on social media.
“If you are really going to talk about merging, Canadians would probably suggest making the US the 11th province of Canada instead—this way, everyone could enjoy free healthcare!” one person posted on X.
“He’s gotta stop with this already. It’s not a good look, and Russia and China are watching,” another commenter said.
“Oh my God, I don’t know one Canadian who wants to become American! You say you’re the best country in the world, but I beg to differ. At least we take care of our people and don’t leave them to fend for themselves when it comes to health, women’s rights, and many other things,” someone else wrote.
“I don’t think most Canadians or Americans want to jump into having one country. We need to become friends again and share a wonderful trade agreement that benefits both sides,” another user shared.
“I don’t like this plan. I think he’s trolling at this point,” one comment read.
“It’s not going to happen… the best thing for Canada and the United States is something like the EU. We need to work together, and if we do… we all win,” another added.
As Trump prepares to assume office on Jan. 20, it remains unclear whether he will continue to push this idea after his inauguration.
