During a visit to a library that straddles the border between Canada and the United States, Department of Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem reportedly stepped from one side to the other while declaring the northern nation "the 51st state."
The Trump administration official's move comes amid increased tensions between the two countries due to the president's decision to threaten tariffs and attack Canada's sovereignty.
According to the Boston Globe, Noem was in Derby Line, Vermont shortly after a United States border patrol officer was shot dead in the line of duty nearby. She decided to pay a visit to the Haskell Free Library & Opera House, through which the border runs.
The library's executive director, Deborah Bishop, told the outlet that Noem "stood on the American side and said, 'USA number one,' then she crossed the line and said, 'the 51st state'."
"She did it at least three times and was very clear in saying, 'USA number one'," Bishop added, "and didn't even say 'Canada,' just, 'the 51st state'."
Staff said the performance made them "angry," accusing Noem of bringing partisan politics into a space dedicated to unity.
Those working at the library were not the only ones upset about Noem's antics.
"If this was at first considered to be a joke, it long ago ceased to be funny," former Alberta premier Jason Kenney wrote in a post on X. "I have worked with previous US Secretaries of Homeland Security. They understood that strengthening continental security required mutual respect and cooperation. How is that not self-evident?"
Trump first mentioned Canada becoming the 51st state last year, and since then his rhetoric has only increased in hostility. Canadians and leaders from coast to coast to coast — save for a small group of fans of the president — have united against his attacks, declaring that Canada will never give up its sovereignty.
