Donald Trump suggested that Mexico and Canada should annex the United States: “If we are going to subsidize them, let them become a state,” he said
President-elect Donald Trump suggested y that if the United States is subsidizing its neighbors Canada and Mexico to the tune of $100 billion and $300 billion annually, respectively, then those nations should consider becoming part of United States of America.
The 78-year-old Trump expressed his willingness to impose tariffs on both countries if they fail to curb illegal immigration across their borders into the U.S. In his first Sunday talk show appearance since winning the November 5 presidential election, Trump told NBC News.
“We’re subsidizing Canada to the tune of over $100 billion a year. We’re subsidizing Mexico for almost $300 billion. We shouldn’t be subsidizing. Why are we subsidizing these countries? If we’re going to subsidize them, let them become a state (of the U.S.).”
He further elaborated, “We’re subsidizing Mexico, we’re subsidizing Canada, and we’re subsidizing many countries all over the world. All I want to do is have a level, fast, but fair playing field.”
Defending Tariffs
Trump dismissed concerns from American CEOs who warned that imposing tariffs could raise the cost of everyday goods, thereby burdening ordinary citizens. According to a PTI report, Trump defended tariffs as beneficial and strategically significant. He argued that tariffs have been effective in preventing conflicts and generating revenue for the country, though he emphasized that their use should be cautious and purposeful rather than arbitrary.
The president-elect also pointed to the economic successes of his previous administration, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting that the stock market performed better under his leadership than before the pandemic.
Negotiation Strategy
When asked if the tariffs were intended as a negotiating tactic, Trump discussed his dealings with Canadian and Mexican leaders. He recounted a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago and conversations with leaders from both nations.
Trump concluded by sharing his firm stance with Mexican former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Justin Trudeau. He revealed that he warned both leaders of a 25% tariff if illegal immigration through their borders was not addressed.
While the suggestion of merging nations into a single entity may seem far-fetched, Trump’s comments reflect his focus on leveraging economic strategies to assert U.S. interests on the global stage.
