In an unusual and contentious proposal, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has suggested making Canada the 51st state of the United States.
According to Fox News, The plan has been met with strong backlash, notably from Ontario Premier Doug Ford and soon-to-resign Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
During a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump revealed his bold strategy, which includes leveraging "economic force" to acquire Canada. He mentioned that starting January 20, his administration would impose a 25% tariff on all Canadian exports to the U.S. This approach has prompted a firm response from key Canadian leaders.
Justin Trudeau, expressing his disdain for the annexation idea, firmly stated it was implausible for Canada to become part of the United States. This remark came shortly before Trudeau's announcement that he would step down after the Liberal Party selects a new leader.
Doug Ford, serving as Ontario's Premier since 2018 and a former businessman, has been particularly vocal. Known for his straightforward style, Ford described Trump’s proposal as "crazy" and "ridiculous." He humorously suggested a counter-offer to buy the U.S. states of Alaska and perhaps Minnesota.
Ontario, a significant economic player, is the largest trading partner for 17 U.S. states and ranks second for another 11. The province has initiated a U.S.-focused advertising campaign, presenting Ontario as a vital ally and promoting continued trade relations.
The bilateral trade between Canada and the U.S. stands at nearly one trillion dollars, putting the potential impact of proposed tariffs into sharp perspective. Ford criticized the tariff plan, noting, "It just doesn’t make sense whatsoever." He highlighted the effect on American consumers, especially highlighting how the cost of vehicles like those manufactured in Oshawa could dramatically increase.
Concerned about the economic impact, Ford's government is contemplating retaliatory measures against the U.S. tariffs. At the same time, Ford has been proactive, reaching out to U.S. senators and governors to foster support against Trump's plans. Their previous encounter in 2012 during a Toronto event further underscores the historic ties and current tensions.
Here is Doug Ford discussing the value of the U.S.-Canada trade relationship:
Strengthening our trade relationships will make the U.S. and Canada the richest and the most prosperous jurisdiction in the world. I want to create more jobs in the U.S. and more jobs in Canada. Trump doesn’t realize that Ontario is the U.S.’s third-largest trading partner.
Furthermore, Ford contemplates a future in federal politics which could potentially allow him to continue these discussions at an international level.
Ford also critiqued the planned tariffs' impact, describing a hypothetical scenario where a Texas resident could pay significantly more for a Canadian-made vehicle. The Trudeau government, albeit in its final days under Justin, has also initiated a border-security initiative focusing on illegal crossings and drug trafficking, compounding the complex U.S.-Canada relationship.
While Ford has been very clear about his opposition to Trump's proposal, stating that it "will never, ever happen" under his watch, he urged Trump to reconsider the economic implications of his strategy. Adding humor to his opposition, Ford's comment about acquiring U.S. states also illustrated his firm stance against the idea.
In responding to formidable challenges posed by the new U.S. presidential administration's plans, Canadian political and economic landscapes are poised for change. Ontario Premier Doug Ford stands at the forefront, advocating for robust bilateral relations while countering protectionist moves that could disrupt a nearly trillion-dollar trade relationship, further asserting Canada's sovereignty and economic strength against external pressures.
