President-elect Donald Trump took a jab at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, referring to him as the “Governor” of the “Great State of Canada” in a Truth Social post. The comment comes as the two leaders discussed trade and Trump’s proposed tariffs during Trudeau’s visit to Mar-a-Lago.
“It was a pleasure to have dinner the other night with Governor Justin Trudeau of the Great State of Canada,” Trump quipped. “I look forward to seeing the Governor again soon so that we may continue our in-depth talks on tariffs and trade, the results of which will be truly spectacular for all!”
The remarks follow Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on Canadian imports unless Canada addresses the flow of illegal drugs and migrants into the U.S. Last fiscal year, 43 pounds of fentanyl were seized at the Canadian border, while over 21,000 pounds were intercepted at the Mexican border. Trudeau, however, argued it is unfair to lump Canada’s challenges with Mexico’s issues.
Trudeau characterized the Mar-a-Lago meeting as “productive” but cautioned that Trump’s tariffs could raise prices for U.S. consumers. “Trump got elected on a commitment to make life better and more affordable for Americans, and I think people south of the border are beginning to wake up to the reality that tariffs on everything from Canada would make life a lot more expensive,” Trudeau stated.
Canada’s U.S. ambassador, Kristen Hillman, weighed in, emphasizing the trade balance between the two nations. She noted that Canada sold $170 billion in energy products to the U.S. last year, with 77% of Canada’s exports flowing south. Hillman added that Canada’s smaller economy naturally affects trade dynamics.
Trump later shared an A.I.-generated image of himself holding a Canadian flag with the caption, “Oh, Canada!” Canadian Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc downplayed the comments, calling them jokes that reflect a positive relationship as Trump prepares for his second term.
While tensions over trade persist, Trump’s humor seems to underline his confidence in achieving favorable outcomes for American workers. Whether his remarks will smooth or strain relations remains to be seen.
