Donald Trump’s Views on Canada: A Surprising Revelation
In public, former US President Donald Trump often refers to Canada’s Prime Minister with a dismissive tone. However, a recent revelation suggests a more nuanced perspective. According to royal biographer Robert Hardman, who dined with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, the former President privately acknowledges that annexing Canada is an unrealistic ambition.
“I guess it’s not going to happen!” Trump reportedly told Hardman earlier this year, revealing a surprising acceptance of Canada’s sovereignty. This admission comes from a man known for his bold pronouncements and unconventional approaches to international relations.
A Respect for the Monarchy?
Trump, a self-proclaimed admirer of the British monarchy, cited Canada’s long history of independence and its continued ties to King Charles as key reasons why annexation is not feasible. He framed his past threats of annexation as stemming from personal frustration, stating, “They’re nice to my face and then they say bad things behind my back,” according to Hardman’s upcoming book, Elizabeth II. In Private. In Public. The Inside Story.
Hardman suggests Trump’s affection for the monarchy is rooted in his family history. His mother, Mary Anne MacLeod Trump, was born in Scotland and maintained a strong connection to her heritage. This familial link, combined with his personal interactions with Queen Elizabeth II, appears to have fostered a genuine respect for the institution.
The Queen’s Influence
Trump reportedly attempted to gauge Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite US President, but she skillfully avoided answering, simply stating, “They were all very nice.” Trump, impressed by her diplomatic finesse, remarked, “That’s why she lasted 70 years without a complaint – because she was so good at it.” He also believed the Queen “liked me because we talked a lot.”
Even after the Queen’s passing, Trump’s enthusiasm for the monarchy remained. Hardman notes that Trump is equally complimentary towards King Charles, highlighting the Royal Family’s potential influence on the former President.
Royal Concerns and International Diplomacy
An interesting anecdote reveals how “royal concerns” played a role in Trump’s response to criticism regarding NATO allies’ contributions in Afghanistan. After initially downplaying their role, Trump, following communication regarding the Royal Family, praised British forces as “second to none.”
Hardman recounts a conversation where he informed Trump that annexing Canada would likely displease King Charles. Trump’s response, “Do they still recognize the King? Or have they stopped that?” demonstrates a surprising lack of awareness regarding Canada’s constitutional monarchy.
Despite his musings about redrawing the border along the 49th parallel, Trump ultimately acknowledged the historical and cultural significance of Canada, stating, “You can’t deal with that in 3½ years.”
Further Reading: For more information on Canada-US relations, you can visit the Council on Foreign Relations website.
