In a surprising turn of events, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on January 6, 2025, after nearly a decade in office. Trudeau, 53, cited internal party pressures and declining popularity amid economic challenges as reasons for his decision.
Following Trudeau’s announcement, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump reignited his proposal for Canada to become the 51st state of the United States. On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump stated, “If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE… Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!”
This is not the first time Trump has floated the idea of a U.S.-Canada merger. In December 2024, during a meeting with Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago, Trump humorously suggested that Canada consider becoming the 51st U.S. state, referencing potential economic benefits and enhanced security.
Trudeau’s resignation comes amid economic challenges, including rising inflation and a housing shortage, which have contributed to his declining popularity. The Liberal Party is now tasked with selecting a new leader, with Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney among the frontrunners.
Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has called for immediate elections, criticizing the prorogation of parliament until March 24 and expressing concerns about national governance during this period
As Canada navigates this political transition, Trump’s proposal adds an unexpected dimension to the discourse, though it remains to be seen how seriously it will be considered by Canadian officials and the public.
