As Canadians head to the polls, Donald Trump stirs controversy by urging the country to consider U.S. statehood—prompting fierce backlash from Canadian leaders.
As Canada votes in one of its most consequential federal elections in recent years, former U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited controversy with a provocative message: that Canada should consider becoming the 51st state of the United States.
“Good luck to the Great people of Canada,” Trump wrote early Monday on Truth Social. “Elect the man who has the strength and wisdom to cut your taxes in half, increase your military power, for free… if Canada becomes the cherished 51st State of the United States of America.”
Trump painted a picture of economic boom and military strength, promising “zero tariffs or taxes,” and touted the benefits of erasing the U.S.-Canada border entirely, calling it an “artificially drawn line from many years ago.”
Why Trump’s Comments Matter
Trump’s post arrives at a tense moment. Canada’s election has been heavily influenced by deteriorating U.S.-Canada relations, fueled in large part by Trump’s aggressive trade policies—including sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods such as steel, aluminum, and lumber.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, once trailing in the polls, has gained momentum in recent weeks by campaigning against what he describes as Trump’s disrespectful and damaging stance toward Canada. Betting market Polymarket now gives Carney more than an 80% chance of winning reelection.
While Trump did not name a specific candidate in his post, both Carney and his main rival, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, have forcefully rejected any notion of Canada becoming part of the United States.
What the Candidates Actually Propose
Carney’s platform centers around a “spend less, invest more” approach. He has promised a modest 1-point cut in the marginal tax rate for the lowest-income Canadians and a gradual increase in defense spending.
Poilievre, meanwhile, has promised a more substantial 15% cut in income taxes and stronger investment in national defense. However, neither party supports anything close to Trump’s fantasy of “halving taxes” or providing a stronger military “for free.”
Trump’s Ongoing Border Rhetoric
This isn’t Trump’s first time challenging the legitimacy of the Canadian border. In March, he referred to it as “an artificial map, drawn by some guy with a ruler years ago,” claiming the U.S. has long “subsidized” Canada and should either stop or bring the country into the American fold.
Despite these statements, Trump previously characterized his conversation with Carney in March as “extremely productive,” suggesting a willingness to cooperate post-election—though that tone now contrasts sharply with his recent rhetoric.
Canadian Leaders Push Back
Both major Canadian party leaders swiftly rebuked Trump’s suggestion.
Carney responded in March: “We’re ready to engage with the U.S. on a comprehensive negotiation—when Canada is shown respect as a sovereign nation.”
Poilievre was even more forceful: “We will never be the 51st state. We will bear any burden and pay any price to protect the sovereignty and independence of our country… Never confuse our kindness for weakness. We are mild-mannered and made of steel.”
What’s Next
Early results from Canada’s federal election are expected to roll in Monday night, with full counts projected by Tuesday morning. Voter turnout is anticipated to be high, driven in part by what many see as an existential moment for Canadian independence in the face of mounting American pressure.
Whether Trump’s remarks sway any voters remains to be seen—but they’ve certainly made the stakes feel even higher.
