Trump Calls Canada ‘One of the Nastiest Countries,’ Floats 51st State Idea

U.S. President Donald Trump reignited diplomatic fireworks with Canada this week, labeling the northern neighbor “one of the nastiest countries” to negotiate with and provocatively suggesting it should become the “51st state” of America.

The remarks, made during a closed-door meeting with advisors, underscore deepening frustrations over longstanding trade grievances, including a $100 billion annual U.S. trade deficit with Canada and accusations of “unfair” Canadian tariffs on American goods.

Trump specifically criticized Canada’s trade practices, alleging Ottawa continues to “cheat” on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) despite the pact’s 2020 ratification. “They’ve got tariffs sky-high on our dairy, our agriculture—it’s a one-way street,” a source familiar with the discussions quoted Trump as saying.

The president also hinted at reinstating steep tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, a move that would revive a bitter trade battle from his first term.

Beyond trade, Trump took aim at Canada’s defense contributions, noting its NATO spending falls “way below” the alliance’s 2% GDP target. “They’re freeloaders, and they know it,” he reportedly asserted.

The comments come as Trump positions himself for a 2024 White House bid, doubling down on his “America First” rhetoric. Notably, the former president also expressed frustration with Canada’s liberal leadership, stating he’d prefer negotiating with “someone who actually respects the U.S.”—a nod to Conservative Party rivals of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

The suggestion that Canada should join the U.S. as a state triggered swift backlash north of the border. “Canadians fought for independence in 1812, and we’re not about to surrender it in 2024,” tweeted Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner.

Social media erupted with #NotThe51stState, while Trudeau’s office dismissed the idea as “absurd political theater.” Analysts, however, warn the rhetoric risks destabilizing cross-border relations ahead of critical negotiations on auto tariffs and energy projects.

While Trump’s base cheered his tough stance, bipartisan lawmakers urged caution. “Canada is our largest trading partner and closest ally. Alienating them over campaign rhetoric helps no one,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska).

Meanwhile, the Biden administration reaffirmed its commitment to the USMCA but avoided direct commentary on Trump’s statements.

Trump’s broadside against Canada reflects a broader strategy to leverage economic nationalism ahead of the 2024 election.

With both nations entangled in disputes over electric vehicle subsidies, lumber, and dairy quotas, the remarks risk inflaming a relationship already strained by competing visions of North American trade.