On April 2, 2025, America’s 49th state, Alaska, is showing support for Canada amidst rising tensions stemming from U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial trade policies. Republican Rep. Chuck Kopp, representing Alaska, has voiced strong opposition to the president's trade war and his proposal to annex Canada, emphasizing the need to affirm Canadian sovereignty through a joint resolution in the state legislature.
Kopp articulated that the resolution aims to present a unified voice of restoration and reconciliation among allies at a time when trade restrictions have jeopardized the longstanding relationship between Alaska and Canada. “This resolution, more than anything, is to present a unified voice of restoration and reconciliation among old allies and friends at a time when trade restrictions have jeopardized and challenged that relationship,” Kopp stated during his testimony before the Alaska Senate Resources Committee.
The resolution, which has already passed in the House, is set to be reviewed again by the Senate, with potential amendments expected. It also calls for copies to be sent to several officials, including President Trump and Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney.
In his testimony, Kopp highlighted the deep-rooted cultural, military, and economic ties that Alaska shares with Canada. He noted that before a modern border was established, Indigenous peoples freely moved across the land to trade and share knowledge and culture. This historical context underscores the importance of the relationship, particularly during significant events such as World War II when the U.S. and Canada collaborated to construct the critical Alaska Highway.
“What started as a wartime necessity became a permanent economic artery between Alaska and Canada,” Kopp remarked. He further stressed that Alaskan grocery stores rely heavily on Canadian supply chains for fresh vegetables, dairy, and packaged goods, indicating that around 20,000 jobs in Alaska are directly tied to the state’s relationship with Canada. “Keeping our relationship with Canada isn’t just good policy,” he said. “It’s really who Alaskans are, and we recognize it’s essential to our way of life.”
Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai also spoke before the committee on March 31, 2025, via video call, expressing his hope that the Alaska Senate would take a stand to protect the vital relationship with Canada. “We must continue to work together to protect the livelihood of our citizens and our economies,” Pillai said. He emphasized the mutual support that exists between Alaskans and Yukoners, especially during difficult times. “Like all good neighbours, when times are tough, Alaskans and Yukoners are there for each other.”
Pillai also pointed out that both regions collaborate on critical issues such as fighting wildfires and compete together in various Arctic sporting events, showcasing the interconnectedness of their economies and cultures. In addressing the recent tariffs imposed by Canada in response to U.S. actions, Pillai clarified, “I want to emphasize that Canada’s response to tariffs and our efforts to protect our economy and sovereignty are not a reflection of our feelings toward the American people. We remain your greatest friends and your closest allies. We want to keep working together, just like we’ve done for the past 150 years.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, Republican Sen. Cathy Giessel, the president of the Senate, expressed her full agreement with Pillai’s sentiments. “As a lifelong Alaskan, I agree with every word you said, 100 percent,” she stated. “I can also say, genuinely, I love Canadians, because my youngest son is a dual citizen. He lives in a different province.”
This resolution and the sentiments expressed by both Kopp and Pillai reflect a growing concern among Alaskans about the potential fallout from federal policies that threaten their vital relationship with Canada. With trade restrictions raising alarms, the resolution serves as a reminder of the historical bonds and economic interdependencies that have long defined the Alaska-Canada relationship.
As the situation unfolds, many Alaskans hope that their state legislature will stand firm in its commitment to affirming Canada’s sovereignty and nurturing the ties that have been woven together through shared history and mutual respect. The outcome of this resolution could have lasting implications for both states, as they navigate the complexities of modern geopolitics while honoring their shared past.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on April 2, 2025.
