Special Poll
Meeting Overview:
- President-elect Donald Trump suggested to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that Canada could become the 51st state if tariffs threatened its economy, according to sources.
- The meeting took place last Friday at Mar-a-Lago after Trudeau flew in unannounced in response to Trump’s tariff threats.
Key Discussion Points:
- Trump is considering imposing 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico for failing to address illegal immigration and drug trafficking into the U.S.
- Discussions centered on tariffs, border security, trade deficits, and economic concerns.
Trump’s Concerns:
- Trump accused Canada of failing to stop illegal immigration and drug flows into the U.S. from over 70 countries.
- He expressed frustration over the U.S. trade deficit with Canada, estimating it to exceed $100 billion.
Meeting Details:
- The leaders engaged in discussions before dining on crab cocktail and oysters.
- Trump was direct, stating that if Canada couldn’t address these issues, a 25% tariff would be imposed on Canadian goods on his first day back in office.
Trudeau’s Response:
- Trudeau argued that such a tariff would devastate the Canadian economy.
- Trump countered, questioning if Canada’s survival depended on unfair trade practices.
The “51st State” Remark:
- Trump humorously suggested that Canada could become the 51st state, causing nervous laughter among Trudeau and others present.
Outcome:
- Trump described the meeting as “very productive,” though tensions over trade and border issues remained central to the discussion.