The New York Times published an article by its White House correspondent Peter Baker, discussing the idea of annexing Canada to the United States, noting that this scenario, although dismissed by most political circles, could present an electoral opportunity for the Democrats.

According to the article, the idea of annexation is not taken seriously in Washington, and Canada has completely rejected the notion and confirmed its lack of interest in joining the United States. Baker also ruled out any military action by the Trump administration to impose it, despite the American president's tendency to make attention-grabbing decisions to bolster his political image.

Potential Electoral Implications

Baker indicates that if this proposal comes to fruition, it could lead to negative outcomes for the Republican Party, as preliminary studies of voter trends have shown that annexing Canada would result in Republicans losing their majority in the House of Representatives, diminishing their influence in the Senate, and facing difficulties in winning the White House in the upcoming elections.

In this context, Steve Israel, a former congressman who chaired the Democratic Campaign Committee, stated:

“Canada is a centrist-left country, and its annexation would provide the Democrats with additional votes in Congress and the Electoral College, which could ensure the passage of policies like universal healthcare and climate change action.”

For his part, Republican strategist Douglas Hai pointed out that Trump relies on stirring controversy to create political noise, adding that this idea, if implemented, would be “a political gift to the Democrats.”

Trump and the Provocation Strategy

Baker believes that the American president may use these statements as a means to exert political and economic pressure on Canada, rather than as an actual plan to annex it. However, his remarks have raised the ire of Canadian officials, especially following leaks suggesting that he told a group of businessmen that he does not consider the idea merely a joke, but “a realistic possibility.”

The article also quoted James Blair, the Deputy Chief of Staff at the White House, after a meeting with Canadian provincial leaders, stating that Trump’s remarks about annexation should be taken seriously.

A Dismissed Idea That Has Captivated Attention

Although the scenario seems unlikely, Baker points out that the idea has captured the attention of the political class in Washington and has become a topic of discussion in U.S. politics.

If Canada were to join the United States, it would become the largest U.S. state by area (6.11 million square kilometers) and the most populous (40 million inhabitants), making it a stronger Democratic electoral base than California.

This is reinforced by poll results showing that 64% of Canadians would support Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, compared to only 21% who supported Trump.

Summary

While the idea of annexing Canada to the United States does not seem realistic, the controversy sparked by Trump’s comments may carry deep political and electoral implications, particularly amid sharp partisan divisions within the United States.