Trump’s Comment on Canada Becoming 51st US State Not Seen as a Joke by Minister

December 3, 2024 TruthUSA

Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc clarified that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s suggestion of Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state was made in jest and should not be taken seriously.

According to Fox News, during a recent dinner at Trump’s Florida residence, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cautioned Trump that imposing 25% tariffs would harm the Canadian economy. In response, Trump jokingly suggested that if Canada couldn’t survive with its $100 billion trade surplus, perhaps it should become the 51st U.S. state with Trudeau as the governor.

Prior to their cabinet meeting, reporters asked Liberal ministers their thoughts on Trump’s reported comment, to which LeBlanc responded that Trump’s remarks should not be interpreted as considering Canada a “joke.” LeBlanc emphasized the positive relationship between Trump and Trudeau.

Although The Epoch Times has not independently verified the comments, LeBlanc and other ministers did not dispute them.

LeBlanc characterized the meeting at Mar-a-Lago as a casual social gathering, where light-hearted conversations and jokes took place. He emphasized that Trump’s remarks were not meant as a serious proposal.

Additionally, LeBlanc highlighted that Trudeau responded to Trump’s jokes during the meeting but did not provide further details.

Following Trump’s threat of imposing a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, Canadian officials have been swift in their response, including enhancing border security measures with new equipment purchases such as helicopters and drones with specialized sensors.

While the meeting with Trump was described as positive and productive by LeBlanc, no specific announcements were made afterward.

Procurement Minister Jean-Yves Duclos mentioned that the equipment purchases were expedited using special authorities due to the perceived “national emergency” regarding border security.

Regarding Trump’s joke, Duclos acknowledged the importance of the meeting and highlighted the significance of Trump inviting Trudeau to his residence as a sign of the importance of the relationship with Canada.

Tourism Minister Soraya Martinez Ferrada expressed confidence in the upcoming conversations with Trump, stating that although they may be challenging, they will ultimately be productive.

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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