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Harper Pushes Back Against Trump’s Comments About Canada Becoming a U.S. State
Former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has voiced his disapproval of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s recent suggestion that the United States could use economic pressure to turn Canada into the 51st state. Harper took to social media on Wednesday to respond indirectly, reposting text from a Conservative Party of Canada video he delivered 13 years ago.
“True when I said it (13 years ago),” Harper wrote. “True today.”
In the excerpt, Harper championed Canadian sovereignty and national pride:
“And we want Canada to be a True North that is as strong and as free as it can be in every way that matters: the best country in the world. That’s why we’re here, that’s why we strive, that’s why we serve.
“Canada must reflect the true character of the Canadian people: honourable in our dealings, faithful to our commitments, loyal to our friends. By turns, a courageous warrior and a compassionate neighbour. It is our purpose that Canada must be great, it must be great for all Canadians, it must be a country of hope and an example to the world.
“And only when it is these things—when Canada is all that it can be—only then can we say that our work is done.”
Canadian Leaders Speak Out
Harper wasn’t the only Canadian leader to respond to Trump’s remarks.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford dismissed the suggestion as “ridiculous” and “a waste of time,” urging collaboration between the two nations to counter economic challenges posed by China.
Meanwhile, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith addressed the issue during a virtual Council of the Federation meeting with her fellow premiers. Smith emphasized the importance of the Canada-U.S. trade relationship, describing it as mutually beneficial and essential to the economies of both nations.
“We are united and steadfast in our opposition to tariffs,” Smith said, “and recognize they would impact each province differently.”
Smith highlighted Alberta’s plan to double its oil production and increase exports to the U.S. as part of strengthening the economic partnership between the two nations. Alberta recently partnered with Enbridge to expand pipeline capacity, a step toward this goal.
Looking ahead, Smith announced her intention to attend the presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C., where she plans to advocate for Canadian interests and promote a stable and united economic relationship with the U.S.
“It has never been more important to demonstrate stability,” she added, urging coordination between provincial and federal leaders to address the threats posed by Trump’s proposed tariffs.
