President-elect Donald Trump recently mocked Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as the “governor” of the “Great State of Canada” after warning of potential tariffs on the country. Trump joked about Canada becoming the 51st state during a dinner with Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago, with Trump suggesting it directly to Trudeau. Trump has also suggested that imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico would make the U.S. “rich” and characterized the U.S.-Canada trade deficit as a form of subsidy. Trudeau responded by stating that Canada would respond to unfair tariffs, as it did eight years ago.
The meeting between Trump and Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago was described as productive, with discussions on addressing the fentanyl and drug crisis, illegal immigration, and fair trade deals. While Trudeau described the conversation as “excellent,” Trump made a joke about Canada joining the U.S., which received mixed reactions. Ontario Premier Doug Ford complimented Trump’s sense of humor, while Sen. Bernie Sanders joked about adopting the Canadian health care system if Canada were to become the 51st state.
Overall, Trump’s comments and jokes about Canada joining the U.S. have sparked discussions on trade, tariffs, and the relationship between the two countries. Trudeau’s office did not respond to Trump’s recent “governor” joke, and the future of U.S.-Canada relations remains uncertain under the incoming administration.
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