President Donald Trump’s push to make Canada the 51st state has sparked heated debates, with “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary stepping into the spotlight. O’Leary argues that merging the two nations would create an economic “juggernaut,” pointing to Canada’s vast resources like oil, gas, and uranium. He claims this union would eliminate tariffs and boost prosperity for both countries. But critics, including liberal media figures, dismiss the idea as a dangerous fantasy.
CNN’s Abby Phillip recently challenged O’Leary, suggesting the plan ignores Canadian sovereignty. O’Leary shot back, highlighting how Canada’s struggling economy under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has left many open to drastic solutions. He noted that Trudeau’s policies have wiped out 41% of Canadians’ net worth in nine years, making the U.S. partnership seem appealing. Phillip’s skepticism melted under O’Leary’s cold, hard facts about Canada’s economic freefall.
The backlash in Canada is fierce, with polls showing 87% oppose joining the U.S. Liberal politicians and media paint Trump as a bully trying to “collapse” Canada’s economy. But conservatives argue this outrage is performative. They point out that Trudeau’s failed leadership created the mess, leaving provinces like Alberta and Ontario to privately seek better deals with the U.S. behind the scenes.
Trump’s threats to impose steep tariffs have rattled Ottawa, but O’Leary calls this “noise.” He insists real talks about an economic union will begin once Canada elects new leadership. The focus, he says, should be on mutual gains: America gets energy security, Canada gains access to a stronger dollar and markets. This pragmatic approach contrasts with liberal hand-wringing over “losing identity.”
Some conservatives quietly agree with O’Leary. They note that 22% of Conservative voters support joining the U.S., far more than backers of other parties. With Trudeau’s approval at rock bottom, many Canadians are tired of virtue-signaling policies and crave economic stability. O’Leary’s message boils down to simple math: prosperity beats patriotism.
The liberal media’s hysteria over Trump’s “51st state” comments ignores reality. No serious talks about annexation exist—this is about renegotiating trade terms to benefit both nations. Trump’s blunt style ruffles feathers, but his goal is fair deals, not conquest. Meanwhile, Trudeau grandstands in Europe, blaming Trump instead of fixing Canada’s self-inflicted crises.
O’Leary’s critics call him a traitor, but conservatives see a businessman tackling tough truths. Canada’s economy is shrinking, its healthcare system is strained, and its global influence is fading. Aligning with the U.S. might be the lifeline it needs. As O’Leary says, “This is a negotiation, not a surrender.”
The debate highlights a growing divide: emotional attachment to sovereignty versus practical solutions for prosperity. While liberals cling to outdated nationalism, conservatives urge adapting to a changing world. With Trump poised for a second term and Canada’s leadership in flux, the next few months could reshape North America’s future—whether the left likes it or not.
