The idea of Canada joining the United States as the 51st state has long been a fringe theory, but former President Donald Trump brought it back into the spotlight during a recent meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Their May 6 discussion at the White House veered from diplomacy to defiance as Carney outright rejected Trump’s annexation musings.
Trump, never one to shy away from bold statements, framed the potential merger as a “wonderful marriage” between the two nations. But Carney, Canada’s newly elected leader, was having none of it. While he diplomatically acknowledged Trump’s impact as a “transformational president,” he left no ambiguity about Canada’s stance: “It’s not for sale. Won’t be for sale, ever.”
Carney’s rebuttal was rooted in both principle and pragmatism. Drawing on his economic expertise, he argued that some things—like national sovereignty—cannot be reduced to a transaction. His words resonated with Canadians who take pride in their country’s independent identity.
Trump, however, refused to let the idea die. With a grin, he quipped, “Never say never,” hinting at his history of achieving what others deemed impossible. But Carney’s firm tone and unwavering body language sent a clear message: Canada’s borders were not up for discussion.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney claps back hard at Trump’s idea about Canada becoming the 51st state.
Trump: "As a real estate developer, when you get rid of that artificial line, when you look at that beautiful formation together, I said, ‘that’s the way it was meant to… pic.twitter.com/oPqBuhLACc
— Ed Krassenstein (@EdKrassen) May 6, 2025
The tension between the two leaders was palpable. Body language analyst Beth Dawson noted that while Carney maintained a polite demeanor, subtle signs—like a tense smile and cautious physical distance—revealed his discomfort. The encounter underscored the challenges of navigating diplomacy with a leader like Trump, who thrives on spectacle.
Ultimately, the meeting reinforced what most already knew: Canada’s sovereignty is non-negotiable. While Trump may enjoy floating far-fetched ideas, Carney’s resolute response ensured that this particular fantasy remains firmly in the realm of political theater.
