In a high-stakes meeting aimed at stopping President Donald Trump’s tariff threats, Canadian premiers faced unexpected controversy when a senior White House official challenged their version of the discussion about Canada's sovereignty.
James Blair, Deputy Chief of Staff for Legislative Affairs, went on social media following Wednesday's meeting to say he "never agreed that Canada would not be the fifty-first state," contradicting statements made by British Columbia Premier David Eby.
The exchange occurred during the premiers visit to Washington to address Trump's threats of substantial tariffs on Canadian goods.
Eby had told reporters the premiers emphasized that any discussion of Canada becoming a U.S. state was a "non-starter."
Despite the disagreement, both sides described the meeting as constructive.
The premiers met with Blair and Sergio Gor, Trump's Director of Personnel, to address the tariff threats of a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports set to begin March 12, and 25% tariffs on most Canadian goods delayed until at least March 4.
Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai offered insight into the Trump administration seeking to project strength while remaining open to negotiation.
"You're dealing with someone who is a dealmaker," said Pillai.
"If you're trying to cut the pie up differently with this president, you know he's going to want the biggest piece."
The meeting heavily focused on border security and fentanyl trafficking, key concerns mentioned by Trump.
Canadian officials highlighted recent initiatives, including a $1.3-billion investment in border security and the appointment of former Mountie Kevin Brosseau as fentanyl czar.
Federal Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, who held separate meetings with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, emphasized growing national unity in the face of tariff threats.
"Canadians have become quite emotional in the last number of weeks and quite united in terms of doing what's necessary to avoid this punitive impact on our economy," said LeBlanc.
The diplomatic efforts continue as Canadian officials work to prevent tariffs that both sides acknowledge would have significant cross-border economic implications.