Trump reacts to Trudeau’s resignation, says ‘Many in Canada love being 51st US State’

Trudeau announced on Monday that he would step down as leader of the Liberal Party and prime minister once a new leader is chosen, though a date for the leadership race has not yet been set. Parliament has been suspended until 24 March.

Trump also repeated his controversial comments about Canada joining the United States. He claimed that becoming the 51st State would lead to “no tariffs, lower taxes, and more security,” adding, “Together, what a great nation it would be!”

This isn’t the first time Trump has taken jabs at Trudeau. Since winning the election in November, he has referred to the Canadian prime minister as a “governor” and suggested Canada should join the US.

Laura Dawson, a Canadian-US relations expert and executive director of the Future Borders Coalition, dismissed Trump’s remarks, saying, “Trump will take credit for anything and spin it into an opportunity to make himself look better.”

However, experts warn that Trudeau’s resignation could worsen the already tense relationship between Canada and the US.

Fen Osler Hampson, a professor of international affairs at Carleton University, expressed concerns over Donald Trump’s threats to impose steep tariffs on Canada and Mexico, warning that the country is “staring down the barrel of a gun” with the proposed 25 per cent tariffs.

Hampson emphasized the need for a unified Canadian response, asking “Who speaks for Canada?” amid the looming trade tensions.

(with inputs from agencies)