The words “51st state” weren’t uttered in the public part of this meeting, but Trump referenced the idea multiple times.
After Carney listed some ways Trump has been a transformative president, Trump added: “The merger of Canada and the United States” before quickly adding, “I’m only kidding.”
“That wasn’t where I was going, no,” Carney said with a laugh. The exchange provoked laughter in the room and both men were smiling.
Later, Trump was asked what he would say to Canadians who no longer want to travel to the U.S.
“I understand that…. We want Canada to do great, but there’s a point at which we also want the same business. We’re competing for the same business. That’s the problem.
“That’s why I keep mentioning one way to solve that problem is a very easy way.”
