Washington — During a confirmation hearing on Thursday, President Trump’s nominee for ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra, emphasized the sovereignty of Canada amid the president’s ongoing assertions that it might soon become part of the U.S.
In response to a question from Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware about whether he agreed that Canada is an independent nation, Hoekstra affirmed, “Canada is a sovereign state, yes,” and insisted it “should not be even jokingly referred to as the 51st state.”
He mentioned the strong historical ties between the two nations and expressed confidence that Trump’s commitment to “freer, fairer trade” would enhance the business relationship with Canada.
On the same day, President Trump questioned the legitimacy of the U.S.-Canada border, labeling it as an “artificial line” drawn years ago, asserting, “Makes no sense,” in reference to its existence.
This week, the president imposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum products imported from Canada, threatening to escalate the tariffs if Canada did not revoke its own recent export charges on electricity to several U.S. states.
Trump maintains that these tariffs serve to protect U.S. interests, despite the trade agreement with Canada being negotiated and signed by him in his first term. The president suggested that Canada should consider his offers for annexation as a means to relieve the economic strain.
“The only thing that makes sense is for Canada to become our cherished Fifty First State,” Trump stated on Tuesday. “This would eliminate all tariffs and other issues. Canadian taxes would be significantly lowered, with increased security both militarily and otherwise. The Northern Border issue would disappear, and the most powerful nation in the world would grow even stronger — with Canada playing a significant role.”
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