Saskatchewan MLAs unanimously reject Trump’s 51st state proposal

Saskatchewan MLAs have voted unanimously that Canada remains an independent country after passing a motion on Thursday confirming Canada will never become the fifty-first state of the United States.

The motion, originally introduced by the Sask NDP, was intended to condemn President Donald Trump’s remarks about annexing Canada and imposing tariffs on Canadian goods. 

While the final version of the motion still affirmed Canada’s sovereignty, it no longer mentioned Trump by name.

Premier Scott Moe and the Saskatchewan Party government amended the NDP’s motion to focus on key policy issues, including collaboration with other provinces and the federal government to remove harmful tariffs. 

They also added commitments to invest in local infrastructure and to expand trade with other countries. 

Although all MLAs supported the final motion, the vote was 31-25 before unanimous consent was reached.

NDP Leader Carla Beck had hoped the legislature would directly call out Trump’s threats against Canadian producers. 

Beck argued that many in Saskatchewan were looking for an explicit rebuke of Trump. 

“When someone goes after your team, sometimes you drop the gloves,” said Beck, emphasizing that condemning Trump was essential to standing up for Saskatchewan industries.

Despite the NDP’s disappointment over the removed references to Trump, the NDP still supported the amended final motion, stating it maintained a pro-Canada message. 

Beck also acknowledged the importance of sending a united signal that Saskatchewan stands firm against any suggestion of US annexation.

Premier Moe defended the changes, saying his government preferred to prioritize action over rhetoric. 

“Canada will never be a fifty-first state,” said Moe, adding that the government remains focused on safeguarding Saskatchewan’s economy and maintaining a strong, long-term relationship with the US.