Elizabeth May’s Bold Proposal: Could U.S. States Join Canada?
Her tone was equal parts playful and pointed. Still, the real headline-grabber came when she suggested that U.S. states like California, Oregon, and Washington consider becoming Canadian provinces.
By Chuck Beaton | DayMark News
In a fiery speech that blended humor, political insight, and a touch of audacity, Elizabeth May, Canada’s Green Party leader, proposed an unconventional idea: inviting several U.S. states to join Canada. Addressing the cultural and political divides between Canada and its southern neighbor, May’s comments were part rebuttal to former President Donald Trump and an imaginative vision of North American unity. The speech has since sparked lively discussions on both sides of the border.
Oh Canada!
— Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) December 4, 2024
Donald Trump Truth Social 04:32 PM EST 12/02/24 @realDonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/XyIx7eCVmE
A Rebuttal With a Twist
May’s remarks stemmed from Trump’s casual suggestion that Wayne Gretzky should consider a run for Canada’s Prime Minister. In response, May delivered a lesson in Canadian civics, pointing out the significant differences between the U.S. presidential system and Canada’s Westminster parliamentary democracy.
“Before making public pronouncements that Wayne Gretzky should run for Prime Minister,” she quipped, “give yourself or get yourself a briefing on the nature of parliamentary democracy… We don’t get to pick and choose among our billionaire friends for who gets a seat at the cabinet table if they’re not an elected member of parliament.”
Her tone was equal parts playful and pointed. Still, the real headline-grabber came when she suggested that U.S. states like California, Oregon, and Washington consider becoming Canadian provinces.
A Vision of Cascadia
May’s proposal wasn’t entirely whimsical. She referenced the longstanding concept of “Cascadia,” a theoretical bioregion uniting British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and parts of California. Highlighting shared values and existing partnerships—such as the carbon trading system between California and Quebec—May painted a picture of a united West Coast.
“How about it? Want to put a referendum to your citizens?” she asked. “Here’s the deal: universal free healthcare, strict gun laws, and safer streets. Women’s reproductive rights? Guaranteed under our universal healthcare system.”
She invited Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, suggesting they’d feel at home among Canada’s Maritime Provinces. May’s tongue-in-cheek offer even included U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, whom she suggested could become a “proud new Canadian citizen of the great province of Vermont.”
The Appeal of Canadian Values
May’s proposal underscored key aspects of Canadian life often envied by progressive Americans: universal healthcare, lower gun violence rates, and broader protections for women’s rights. She cited stark statistics, noting that the U.S. gun death rate is nearly seven times higher than Canada’s.
“California, Oregon, Washington… safer streets here. We already have good gun laws,” she emphasized. Her remarks framed Canada as a beacon of safety and social equity, an attractive alternative for states frustrated by gridlock in U.S. federal politics.
Serious Points Amid the Humor
While much of May’s speech was lighthearted, her core message was serious: Canada values its sovereignty and rejects any notion of becoming the “51st state.” She expressed pride in Canada’s global reputation as a nation of service and humility, contrasting it with what she characterized as the divisive and boastful tone of Trump-era politics.
“We’re not a big nation for braggarts and bullies,” May said. “We actually like to think we’re of service in the world.”
Her comments reflect a growing sentiment in Canada to distinguish itself more assertively from the U.S., especially as cultural and political polarization continues to define American discourse.
A Dream or a Dare?
The idea of U.S. states joining Canada is far from practical. Still, May’s speech is a creative lens to explore shared challenges and potential collaborations. May captured audiences' attention across the continent by framing her remarks as a critique of Trump and an imaginative vision for North American unity.
Could states like California, Washington, or Vermont seriously consider a shift northward? The logistical and political barriers are enormous, but the underlying values May highlighted—healthcare, safety, and equity—resonate with many Americans. Whether her proposal was a dream, a dare, or just a clever political statement, it’s a conversation starter with the potential to inspire new ideas about regional cooperation.
On Friday, May said she doubted her comments would be seen by Trump himself, but felt it was important for Canadians to see politicians explicitly dismiss Trump’s taunts about Canada joining the U.S.
Adding further perspective, some commentators noted that such a shift would fundamentally alter North America's political and cultural landscape. It could amplify progressive policies while presenting complex challenges in governance and integration. For now, May’s speech is a reminder of Canada’s distinct identity and enduring commitment to progressive values. For U.S. citizens intrigued by the idea, it’s an invitation—however fanciful—to imagine a different kind of future.
This article is licensed under Creative Commons (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0), and you are free to share and republish under the terms of the license.
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