President-elect Donald Trump took a swipe at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, humorously referring to him as the “governor” of the “Great State of Canada” and reigniting speculation over his tongue-in-cheek proposal to make Canada the 51st state.
“It was a pleasure to have dinner the other night with Governor Justin Trudeau of the Great State of Canada,” Trump posted on Truth Social shortly after midnight on Tuesday. “I look forward to seeing the Governor again soon so that we may continue our in-depth talks on Tariffs and Trade, the results of which will be truly spectacular for all!”
When asked about the remarks, Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung offered a brief response: “It’s so good.” Trudeau’s office, however, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
A Running Joke About Canada’s Statehood
The remark follows Trump’s recent joke, reportedly made directly to Trudeau during a dinner at Mar-a-Lago, about Canada becoming the 51st state of the U.S. According to sources cited by Fox News, the suggestion was made in a lighthearted manner during the meal.
In a recent NBC News interview on *Meet the Press*, Trump reiterated his stance on imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico, claiming these measures would greatly benefit the U.S. economy. While discussing the U.S.-Canada trade deficit, Trump quipped, “If we’re going to subsidize them, let them become a state.”
Trudeau, responding to the possibility of U.S. tariffs, stated Monday that Canada would counteract as it had in previous trade disputes. “As we did eight years ago, we will respond to unfair tariffs,” he told The Associated Press.
A Dinner Meeting at Mar-a-Lago
On November 30, Trump hosted Trudeau at his Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago, where the two leaders reportedly discussed topics ranging from the opioid crisis to illegal immigration and trade agreements. Following the meeting, Trump characterized their discussion as “very productive” in a Truth Social post. Trudeau, in turn, described their conversation as “excellent” but refrained from addressing specific topics with reporters.
Humor Across Borders
Trump’s comments have drawn varied reactions. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, appearing on Fox News, laughed off the suggestion of Canada’s statehood, referencing a historical anecdote. “It’s a funny comment,” Ford said. “I guess he’s still upset that, you know, in 1812, we burnt down your White House, and he’s holding a grudge after 212 years.”
Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont joined in on the jest, tweeting about the potential benefits of Canada joining the union. “Does that mean that we can adopt the Canadian health care system and guarantee health care to all, lower the cost of prescription drugs, and spend 50% less per capita on health care?” Sanders asked.
While Trump’s remarks about Canada remain in the realm of humor, his continued emphasis on trade and tariffs signals a serious commitment to reshaping U.S. economic relationships with its neighbors.
