In a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Experience, host Joe Rogan expressed his disbelief about the rising anti-Canadian sentiment in the United States, particularly in light of President Donald Trump's repeated assertions that Canada should become the 51st state. The conversation, featuring comedian Michael Kosta, touched on the evolving dynamics between the two neighboring nations after the resignation of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the assumption of leadership by Mark Carney.
During the episode aired on March 13, 2025, Rogan stated, "We got to become friends with Canada again. We have to … this is so ridiculous." He called the ongoing feud, fueled by political rhetoric and trade wars, "the dumbest f—ing feud." Rogan's remarks highlight the tension surrounding U.S.-Canada relations, which intensified under Trump's presidency, especially following his proposals for tariffs on Canadian imports.
Kosta and Rogan discussed whether anti-Canadian sentiment was spreading amidst the trade hostilities initiated shortly after Trump took office. Rogan pointed out that there is currently a disconcerting wave of hostility aimed at the nation's northern neighbor. "Yeah, there’s a lot of idiots that now think, ‘They’re our f—ing enemy. Why are we subsidizing Canada? How come they don’t have their own military?" he remarked, suggesting that Trump’s rhetoric has contributed to these ungrounded beliefs.
As the conversation flowed, Kosta implied that the leadership change in Canada could foster a fresh start in U.S.-Canada relations. However, Rogan quickly dismissed the notion by critiquing Carney. "They got a new guy, who’s just as bad," he said with a chuckle, referring to Carney’s rise to power as one that lacked legitimacy, noting that only 150 people voted for him. "It’s the same thing … their whole election system is so different," Rogan commented, and he expressed confusion about Canadian political processes, emphasizing his hope for improved relations.
Trump has actively stoked the flames of tension between the U.S. and Canada, having made various inflammatory statements regarding Canada’s role in international relations and the economy. In one statement last Thursday, Trump declared, "Canada only works as a state," reiterating his sentiment that merging with Canada could enhance both nations. He elaborated that Canada would be a great and cherished state, claiming geography dictated their proximity and coziness. This led to a surprising moment when Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed during a G7 meeting in Charlevoix, Quebec, that the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state emerged from discussions between Trump and Trudeau last November.
According to Rubio, Trudeau reportedly told Trump that Canada "couldn’t survive as a nation-state" if the U.S. proceeded with tariffs, which triggered Trump's suggestion that Canada should join the States instead. "Trump loves Canada," asserted Rubio, defending the notion as Trump merely laying out an economic argument for this proposal.
In response to the outlandish ideas being volleyed back and forth, Carney stated, "It's crazy. It's crazy. Simply put, it's crazy. Full stop," highlighting the absurdity of such discussions within diplomatic circles.
Amidst the geopolitical squabbles, Rogan humorously noted, "It would be fun if it happened," when discussing Canada’s potential statehood. Moreover, he added lightheartedly that acquiring Greenland might be a more sensible move. "I think Greenland is more accessible... We can probably buy that if we want a 51st state,” he joked, cleverly pivoting to climate change and the prospect of Americans having a cool refuge amid global warming.
This isn’t the first time Rogan sparked controversy with his playful remarks regarding borders. Earlier this year, he mentioned that America should annex Mexico following a takeover of Canada, laughing off the reaction it might provoke. He also shared a screenshot on Instagram of a Truth Social message from Trump stating, "many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State," garnering significant attention with over 358,000 likes on the post, suggesting the resonance of such sentiments within certain circles.
The climate of discontent isn’t limited to podcast banter, as U.S. sports teams are finding themselves on the receiving end of booing at Canadian venues. The tradition of playing national anthems at cross-border events has increasingly led to tensions, showcasing how political sentiments bleed into cultural domains. Videos of U.S. teams' anthems being met with jeers have gone viral, reflecting the very tangible fallout from the political landscape.
As Rogan pushes for amicable relations, he captures a growing sentiment among moderates disenchanted with escalating nationalism and protective trade policies poised to disrupt a crucial economic partnership. With bilateral trade surpassing $1 trillion annually, analysts warn that tariffs could dismantle important supply chains and jeopardize millions of jobs across both nations, amplifying the call for diplomacy instead of division.
In navigating this complex narrative, Joe Rogan's voice stands out as a plea for unity, urging that it’s time for both nations to mend the ties that bind them. The history shared between the U.S. and Canada is steeped in cooperation, and Rogan’s advocacy for friendship echoes a wish that transcends the tumultuous political debates of today.
