As Canadians headed to the polls for their federal election, U.S. President Donald Trump stirred controversy by suggesting that Canada should become the “cherished 51st state” of the United States.
In a post on Truth Social Monday, Trump wrote, “Good luck to the Great people of Canada,” before pitching an unexpected idea. He urged Canadians to “vote for him” to cut taxes, boost their military, and grow key industries without tariffs — benefits he promised would come if Canada joined the U.S. as a state.
“No more artificially drawn line from many years ago,” Trump wrote. “Look how beautiful this land mass would be. Free access with NO BORDER. ALL POSITIVES WITH NO NEGATIVES. IT WAS MEANT TO BE!”
However, Canadians cannot vote for Trump, as he is not on any ballot — and the country’s politics are currently dominated by the Liberal and Conservative parties.
Pierre Poilievre’s Swift Response
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre quickly fired back at Trump’s comments.
“President Trump, stay out of our election. The only people who will decide the future of Canada are Canadians at the ballot box,” Poilievre wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
He continued with a strong message on Canadian pride and independence: “Canada will always be proud, sovereign, and independent, and we will NEVER be the 51st state.”
Poilievre encouraged Canadians to vote for change and strengthen their nation’s ability to stand “on our own two feet” — and even “stand up to America.”
Canadian Leaders Defend Sovereignty
Liberal Party leader and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also addressed Trump’s comments in a video on Monday.
“This is Canada — and we decide what happens here,” Carney said, reinforcing the country’s independent identity.
Interestingly, while the Conservatives once enjoyed a commanding 25-point lead, recent polls show the Liberals gaining momentum, making this election race tighter than many expected.
Big Picture
Trump’s latest remarks have added an unusual twist to Canada’s federal election day, but the overwhelming response from Canadian leaders was unified:
Canada’s future will be decided by Canadians — and Canadians alone.
