Justin Trudeau's resignation: Donald Trump reiterates call for Canada to be the 51st US state: ‘What a great nation…’

US President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his call for Canada to join the US as its 51st state on January 6 while commenting on Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation on his Truth Social platform.

The soon-to-be US President took to Truth Social and wrote, "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!"

Justin Trudeau Resignation LIVE

Justin Trudeau' resignation announcement

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday that he would resign as leader of the Liberal Party and as Prime Minister as soon as a new candidate is found for the post. Trudeau said he had spoken to the Liberal Party President to look for a new Prime Ministerial candidate. 

He announced that Parliament, originally scheduled to resume on January 27, would be suspended until March 24, allowing time for the Liberal Party's leadership race.

"I intend to resign as party leader and as Prime Minister after the party choses next leader. If I have to fight internal battles I can't be a good candidate. I have asked the liberal part president to search for a new candidate for the post of Prime Minister," he said.

He added, “Chrystia (Freeland) has been a political partner for many years. I had hoped she would continue as Deputy PM, but she chose otherwise.”

Who are top contenders for next Canada Prime Minister after Trudeau's exit

Trudeau planned to run for a fourth term in next year's election but quit amid mounting challenges. The top contenders for the Liberal leadership include Chrystia Freeland, Melanie Joly, François-Philippe Champagne, and Anita Anand.

—Canada's Deputy PM and former finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, resigned from cabinet in December 2024. 

—Mark Carney, who previously led the Bank of Canada and also served as governor of the Bank of England, is a potential candidate. 

—Foreign Minister Melanie Joly is among the potential candidates for the Liberal leadership.

—Indian origin Anita Anand, a lawmaker who is the minister in charge of transportation and internal trade, is also a contender. 

—Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne is also among the top contenders for the role.

(With inputs from agencies)