Trump Proposes Canada Becomes 51st State

(Rightallegiance.com) – Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont responded Tuesday to the idea floated by President-elect Donald Trump that Canada could join the United States as its 51st state. The suggestion reportedly came during a conversation between Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, sparking widespread speculation and commentary on both sides of the border.

Sanders Embraces the Idea—Under Certain Conditions

Trump’s proposal was reportedly made during a meeting at Mar-a-Lago, where Trudeau had flown unannounced to discuss trade issues and avert sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods. Reacting to the news, Sanders, a longtime advocate for universal healthcare, highlighted the potential benefits for the United States.

“Trump has suggested that Canada become the 51st state in our union,” Sanders wrote in a public statement. “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? I’m all for it.”

Sanders has frequently criticized the U.S. healthcare system and pharmaceutical industry for high costs and limited access, often pointing to Canada’s universal healthcare model as an example. The senator has championed a “Medicare for All” plan, a single-payer, national health insurance program that would provide all Americans with free healthcare services at the point of delivery.

The Mar-a-Lago Meeting and Trump’s Proposal

The conversation between Trump and Trudeau reportedly began with tensions over proposed U.S. tariffs. Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports, citing concerns over illegal immigration and drug trafficking into the U.S. from those countries. Sources indicated that Trudeau warned Trump such tariffs could devastate the Canadian economy.

In response, Trump reportedly quipped, “So your country can’t survive unless it’s ripping off the U.S. to the tune of $100 billion?” He then suggested, apparently in jest, that Canada join the United States as its 51st state.

According to sources cited by Fox News, the room responded with nervous laughter, but Trump persisted. He even offered Trudeau the title of governor in this hypothetical scenario, adding that Canada could potentially be divided into two states—one liberal and one conservative.

Political Implications of the Proposal

While Trump’s suggestion appeared to be offhand, it has raised intriguing questions about the relationship between the two nations. Canada’s healthcare system, progressive policies, and cultural differences from the U.S. have often been points of contrast in political debates. Sanders seized on the opportunity to highlight these differences, emphasizing Canada’s approach to healthcare as a model worth emulating.

“If Canada were to join the U.S., we could finally guarantee healthcare as a human right and dramatically cut costs,” Sanders suggested. His remarks align with his broader vision of reforming the U.S. healthcare system to reduce expenses and improve access.

The Reality of Integration

While the idea of Canada joining the U.S. is highly unlikely, it has prompted discussions about cross-border cooperation and the stark contrasts between the two nations. Canada’s single-payer healthcare system is often praised for its efficiency and accessibility, while critics of the U.S. system point to its high costs and lack of universal coverage.

Trump’s remarks, though made in jest, also touch on underlying economic tensions between the two nations. His administration has frequently accused Canada of unfair trade practices, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and dairy.

For now, Sanders’ commentary serves as a reminder of the broader debate surrounding healthcare reform in the U.S., as well as the complex dynamics of U.S.-Canada relations. Whether the suggestion of statehood was a serious proposal or a rhetorical flourish, it has certainly sparked conversation about what the U.S. could learn from its northern neighbor.