CurrentReport Blog Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again taken a jab at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, referring to him as the “Governor” of America’s so-called 51st state.
Trump made the remarks in a post on his Truth Social platform on Thursday while showing support for the U.S. hockey team competing against Canada.
“I’ll be calling our GREAT American Hockey Team this morning to spur them on towards victory tonight against Canada, which with FAR LOWER TAXES AND MUCH STRONGER SECURITY, will someday, maybe soon, become our cherished, and very important, Fifty First State,” Trump wrote.
He went on to mention that he would be speaking before the governors in Washington, D.C., and therefore could not attend the hockey game. However, he extended an invitation to Trudeau, saying:
“But we will all be watching, and if Governor Trudeau would like to join us, he would be most welcome. Good luck to everybody, and have a GREAT game tonight. So exciting! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP.”
Trump’s Repeated Jabs at Trudeau
This is not the first time Trump has referred to Trudeau as a “Governor” rather than a Prime Minister.
In December 2024, following a dinner meeting at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump sarcastically referred to him as “Governor Justin Trudeau of the Great State of Canada.” The former U.S. president has repeatedly suggested that Canada should become part of the United States, an idea he brought up again in February during a Super Bowl pre-show interview.
During that interview, Trump reiterated that he was serious about wanting Canada to join the U.S., arguing that the country would benefit from lower taxes and stronger security under American governance.
His comments have sparked reactions on both sides of the border. While some Trump supporters applaud the idea, many Canadians, including political analysts and government officials, have dismissed the remarks as unserious and provocative.
Political and Public Reactions
Trump’s latest remarks have reignited discussions about his often tense relationship with Trudeau. The two leaders clashed repeatedly during Trump’s presidency, particularly over trade policies and international relations. Their public disagreements peaked during the 2018 G7 summit when Trump called Trudeau “very dishonest and weak” following disputes over tariffs.
Despite their differences, Trump and Trudeau have occasionally shared diplomatic engagements, but the former president’s repeated mockery of Canada’s sovereignty has drawn criticism.
Canadian political figures have yet to respond to Trump’s latest remarks, but many observers see it as part of his ongoing populist rhetoric aimed at energizing his voter base ahead of the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
The Bigger Picture
While Trump’s suggestion of Canada becoming America’s 51st state is largely seen as rhetorical, it highlights the former president’s persistent nationalist stance. His comments may resonate with certain voters but are unlikely to have any real political implications.
For now, Trump continues to make headlines with his provocative statements, keeping both Canadian and American political observers on edge as he seeks a potential return to the White House.