Former businessman and current Ontario Premier Doug Ford has sharply rebuked President-elect Trump's suggestion of annexing Canada as the 51st state, calling the idea "crazy" and "ridiculous." Ford, who has served as Ontario's premier since 2018, emphasized the importance of bolstering the existing robust trade relationship between the two nations, which he estimates to be worth nearly a trillion dollars. He believes a stronger partnership would lead to greater prosperity for both countries.

In response to Trump's proposal, Ford jokingly suggested a counteroffer: "How about if we buy Alaska and throw in Minnesota?" He later quipped that he received feedback from Canadians suggesting he should have chosen warmer locations like Florida or California.

Ford also expressed serious concern over Trump's threatened 25% tariff on Canadian exports, slated to take effect on January 20th. He warned that such a tariff would negatively impact millions of workers on both sides of the border, highlighting that nine million Americans produce goods for Ontario alone. Ford pointed to China shipping goods through Mexico as the real trade issue that needs addressing.

Ford's government recently launched a multimillion-dollar ad campaign in the U.S. promoting Ontario as a key ally, emphasizing the province's role in providing energy and critical minerals. He stated Ontario is prepared to retaliate against U.S. tariffs if necessary, though he acknowledged such measures would be detrimental to both countries. Ford expressed his desire to meet with Trump directly to discuss these issues and also hopes to connect with Elon Musk, whom Trump has tapped to co-lead the proposed Department of Government Efficiency.

The Ontario premier underscored the significance of the trade relationship between Ontario and the U.S., noting that Ontario is America's third-largest trading partner. He expressed his commitment to increasing exports of electricity and critical minerals to the U.S., emphasizing the mutual reliance between the two regions. Ford, who previously ran a family business, Deco Labels & Flexible Packaging, before entering politics, described Trump as a "shrewd operator" and a "smart businessperson" who is aware of Ontario's importance.

Ford criticized Trump for seemingly targeting Canada, a close ally, while overlooking other allies like the U.K. and France. He expressed hope that with Trudeau's impending departure, communication between the two countries will improve. He also mentioned his own potential interest in federal politics in the future. Ford plans to meet with other Canadian premiers and Trudeau to discuss the tariff issue and ensure a unified response to Trump's trade policies. He stressed the need to hold Trudeau accountable for ensuring Canada is prepared for the incoming administration's actions, despite Trudeau's upcoming resignation.

In an effort to address border security concerns, Ford's government launched "Operation Deterrence" to combat illegal crossings and the flow of drugs and guns, the majority of which he claims enter Ontario from the U.S. He mentioned collaborating with the U.S. DEA to identify the origins of fentanyl ingredients. Ford's government remains committed to working with the U.S. on these critical issues.