What to know about Trump’s calls to make Canada the ‘51st state’ | THe HillPresident-elect Trump has doubled down on his suggestion of a merged United States and Canada in the wake of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s decision to resign. 

AI SUMMARY:

Trump has escalated rhetoric about annexing Canada following Prime Minister Trudeau’s resignation, suggesting the country should become the U.S.'s "51st state." While some dismiss his comments as trolling, others see a pattern in his broader ambitions to expand U.S. power, including proposals to acquire Greenland and control the Panama Canal. Trump’s statements, including threats of "economic force" against Canada, have sparked backlash in a country where annexation remains overwhelmingly unpopular. 

Canada’s internal political instability complicates its response, with Trudeau now a lame-duck leader and the nation’s political future uncertain ahead of upcoming elections. Trump’s threats, combined with his criticism of Canada’s policies and leaders, hint at a strategic effort to pressure Canada economically and politically. Despite his bluster, the idea of merging Canada into the U.S. remains far-fetched, as cultural, political, and logistical barriers make it unviable. Nonetheless, Trump’s remarks underline his intent to project American dominance in his return to office.