Donald Trump suggests hockey legend Wayne Gretzky should run for Canadian Prime Minister, igniting a playful political discourse.
At a Glance
- Trump urges Wayne Gretzky to run for Canadian Prime Minister during Christmas visit
- Gretzky shows no interest in political ambitions
- Trump jokingly refers to Canada as the “51st state” and Trudeau as “Governor”
- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces domestic pressure amid political turmoil
- Suggestion comes as Conservative Party leads significantly in polls
Trump’s Playful Political Proposal
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again stirred the political pot, this time with a lighthearted suggestion involving Canadian hockey icon Wayne Gretzky. During a Christmas Day visit, Trump proposed that Gretzky should consider running for Prime Minister of Canada, later sharing this idea on his Truth Social platform.
Trump’s proposal comes at a time when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces mounting domestic pressure. The former president’s comments, while seemingly in jest, have sparked discussions about the state of Canadian politics and the influence of popular figures in governance.
Gretzky’s Political Prospects
Despite Trump’s encouragement, Gretzky, known as “The Great One” in hockey circles, has shown no interest in entering the political arena. The legendary player, who holds dual Canadian-U.S. citizenship, has a storied NHL career with teams like the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings but has never expressed political ambitions.
“I just left Wayne Gretzky, ‘The Great One’ as he is known in Ice Hockey circles. I said, ‘Wayne, why don’t you run for Prime Minister of Canada, soon to be known as the Governor of Canada—You would win easily, you wouldn’t even have to campaign.’ He had no interest, but I think the people of Canada should start a DRAFT WAYNE GRETZKY Movement. It would be so much fun to watch!” Donald Trump said.
While Gretzky has previously supported Conservative politicians, including former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, he has maintained a non-partisan stance, hosting events for politicians across the spectrum. This balanced approach has solidified his status as a respected figure in Canadian society, transcending political divides.
Canada’s Political Landscape
Trump’s suggestion comes amid a turbulent period in Canadian politics. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal Party is trailing significantly in polls, with a recent Abacus poll showing 45% support for the Conservative Party compared to just 20% for the Liberals. The resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland has further intensified pressure on Trudeau’s minority government.
“The Great State of Canada is stunned as the Finance Minister resigns, or was fired, from her position by Governor Justin Trudeau,” Trump said.
Trump’s comments about Canada extend beyond the suggestion of Gretzky as a potential leader. He has humorously referred to Canada as the potential 51st state of the U.S., calling Trudeau “Governor” instead of Prime Minister. These remarks, while not taken seriously, highlight the complex relationship between the two nations and the ongoing political dynamics in Canada.
Implications and Reactions
While Trump’s suggestion about Gretzky running for office is largely seen as playful banter, it has reignited discussions about celebrity influence in politics and the state of leadership in Canada. The Canadian Press attempted to contact Gretzky for comments, but no response has been reported.
Experts suggest that Ottawa is more concerned about potential tariffs under a future Trump presidency than his rhetoric about annexing Canada. Trump has previously threatened a 25 percent tariff on Canada over border security and fentanyl issues, stating it “will remain in effect until such time as drugs, in particular fentanyl, and all illegal aliens stop this invasion of our country!”
As Canada navigates its political challenges, Trump’s playful proposal serves as a reminder of the interconnected nature of North American politics and the enduring influence of cultural icons like Wayne Gretzky in shaping public discourse.
