President-elect Donald Trump has recently suggested that Canada could become the 51st U.S. state, a proposal that has sparked significant debate and concern among Canadians. In a December 2024 meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Trump implied that Canada's economic challenges could be alleviated by joining the United States. He later referred to Trudeau as the "Governor of the Great State of Canada," further fueling the controversy.

Canadian leaders have responded firmly against this idea. Prime Minister Trudeau stated there is "not a snowball's chance in hell" of Canada joining the United States. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre emphasized, "Canada will never be the 51st state. Period. We are a great and independent country." Additionally, New Democratic Party Leader Jagmeet Singh remarked, "Cut the crap, Donald. No Canadian wants to join you," later referring to Trump as a "bully."

Public opinion in Canada reflects strong opposition to the idea. A Leger poll found that only 13% of Canadians support merging with the United States, while 82% are opposed. An Angus Reid poll reported even lower support at 6%.

These developments have led to heightened diplomatic tensions between the two nations, with Canadian officials urging citizens to focus on substantive issues like proposed tariffs rather than being distracted by provocative statements.