President-elect Donald Trump referred to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as the “Governor” of the “Great State of Canada” during ongoing tariff discussions. The playful jab, posted on Truth Social, comes as Trump pushes for new trade policies to address illegal drugs and trade imbalances.
“It was a pleasure to meet with Governor Justin Trudeau of the Great State of Canada,” Trump wrote. “I look forward to continuing our talks on trade and tariffs for spectacular results!”
The meeting at Mar-a-Lago centered on Trump’s proposed tariffs, which aim to curb the flow of illegal drugs and protect American workers. U.S. officials noted that 43 pounds of fentanyl were seized at the Canadian border last year, while over 21,000 pounds were intercepted at the Mexican border. Canadian leaders argue that linking Canada’s issues with Mexico’s is unfair.
Trudeau warned that the tariffs could lead to higher costs for U.S. consumers, stating, “Tariffs on Canadian goods would not make life more affordable for Americans.” Despite this, both leaders described the meeting as productive.
Canada’s U.S. ambassador, Kristen Hillman, defended the nation’s trade relationship with the U.S., pointing out that 77% of Canadian exports head south and $170 billion in energy products were sold to the U.S. last year. Hillman emphasized the need to consider Canada’s smaller economy when evaluating trade balances.
Trump later posted an A.I.-generated image of himself holding a Canadian flag with the caption, “Oh, Canada!” Canadian Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc dismissed the comments as lighthearted, signaling positive relations between the two nations as Trump prepares for his second term.
