“The joke has gone too far”: Canadian Finance Minister responds to Donald Trump’s “51st state” talk

Canadian leaders have strongly rejected U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s suggestion that Canada become the 51st U.S. state. Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc dismissed the remarks as “counterproductive,” while other officials criticised Trump’s rhetoric amid trade tensions and the resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Canada’s significant economic ties with the U.S. remain at stake, with potential tariffs threatening to disrupt a CAD 3.6 billion daily trade relationship. Despite the escalating rhetoric, Canadian officials reaffirm their commitment to sovereignty and bilateral cooperation.