No longer a joke: Ministers say Trump’s threats to absorb Canada need to be taken seriously

Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc made a statement on Wednesday regarding U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s repeated assertions that Canada should become the 51st state of the United States. Initially dismissing Trump’s comments as a joke, LeBlanc now emphasizes that they should be taken seriously.

In a press conference, LeBlanc expressed his concern over the continued repetition of Trump’s suggestion. He stated, “The joke is over. The president and his allies continue to repeat this — we know it’s not going anywhere — but the fact that he’s repeating it, it’s not very constructive.”

LeBlanc’s remarks come after a series of provocative statements made by Trump, including threats of imposing hefty tariffs on Canadian goods and the idea of Canada becoming a part of the U.S. during a meeting at Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Despite initially downplaying Trump’s comments as light-hearted banter, LeBlanc now acknowledges the need to address the seriousness of the situation.

Trump’s persistent references to Canada as the “51st state” and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as the “governor” have raised concerns among Canadian officials. Trump reiterated his stance during a recent press conference, suggesting the use of “economic force” to absorb Canada into the United States.

Prime Minister Trudeau responded strongly to Trump’s remarks, stating firmly that there is no possibility of Canada becoming part of the U.S. Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Canadian sovereignty is non-negotiable.

While some officials view Trump’s comments as mere rhetoric, others stress the importance of taking them seriously. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized the need to listen carefully to Trump’s statements, even if they seem outlandish. Immigration Minister Marc Miller dismissed the idea of Canada joining the U.S., adding a touch of humor by stating, “They’d have to find us on a map first.”

Despite differing opinions on the matter, the consensus among Canadian officials is that Trump’s suggestions should not be taken lightly. As the debate continues, it remains clear that Canada’s sovereignty is a fundamental principle that cannot be compromised.