A small but outspoken group of Canadians is pushing for their country to become the 51st state of the United States, citing economic and political frustrations. However, recent polls indicate that the overwhelming majority of Canadians reject this idea.
A January survey by the Angus Reid Institute found that only 10% of Canadians support US statehood, while 90% oppose it. Proponents believe joining the US could lead to better economic opportunities and lower taxes, but experts warn that such a move could have serious economic repercussions for Canada.
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The discussion resurfaced after US President Donald Trump, during a December meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, made remarks about Canada becoming part of the US. Although initially dismissed as a joke, Trump’s comments, combined with economic challenges such as US-imposed tariffs on Canadian goods, have fueled conversations among certain groups.
In provinces like Alberta and Saskatchewan, where dissatisfaction with federal policies is particularly strong, some individuals have advocated for closer ties with the US. A billboard in Bowden, Alberta, featuring Alberta Premier Danielle Smith alongside Trump with the message “Let’s join the USA!” stirred controversy. However, Smith dismissed the notion, stating that there is “no enthusiasm” for it.
Among the supporters, Victoria resident Ryan Hemsley argued that becoming a US state would provide better job prospects and lower taxes. “Based on my work ethic, I know I could make more money,” he said. Others cite issues such as vaccine mandates, dissatisfaction with the British monarchy, or frustrations with Canada’s healthcare system as reasons for supporting US statehood.
Economists, however, refute claims that joining the US would be economically beneficial. Jim Stanford, an economist with the Centre for Future Work, pointed out that while the US has a higher GDP per capita, Canadian workers typically earn more and face fewer out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.
“Americans don’t get paid in per capita GDP; they get paid in wages,” Stanford explained. “The claim that Americans have access to more opportunities than Canadians is completely false.”
Polls suggest that while some Canadians are unhappy with their leadership, very few genuinely advocate for statehood. A separate Ipsos poll found that 30% of Canadians would consider joining the US if they were guaranteed citizenship and asset conversion to US dollars. However, analysts argue that opinions often shift when people consider the full consequences of such a move.
Despite gaining traction on US conservative media platforms, political experts insist that the movement remains on the fringes. “No major policy change, let alone annexation, will happen unless mainstream political leaders support it, and they don’t,” said Jared Wesley, a political scientist at the University of Alberta.
