Summary
Donald Trump suggested Canada could become the U.S.’s “51st state,” claiming it would benefit Canadians through lower taxes and military protection.
The remark follows tensions over Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, which shocked Canadian leaders, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who likened it to betrayal.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau dismissed the annexation talk as unserious but unveiled a $1 billion border security plan to address U.S. concerns.
The escalating rhetoric, including insults from Trump ally Elon Musk, highlights strained Canada-U.S. relations ahead of Trump’s second term.
It wouldn’t though. It would be reapportioned. It’s locked at 435 due to the 1929 Permanent Apportionment Act. You’ll note that 1929 precedes the introduction of both Alaska and Hawaii as states.
The house being locked to that number diminishes the legislative (and electoral college) power of larger states (which is infuriatingly by-design).