Former President Donald Trump suggests hockey legend Wayne Gretzky as Canada’s next prime minister, sparking a playful debate on cross-border politics.
At a Glance
- Trump proposes Wayne Gretzky run for Canadian Prime Minister during Christmas visit
- Gretzky shows no interest in political aspirations despite Trump’s encouragement
- Trump’s suggestion comes amid political turmoil in Canada’s Liberal government
- Former president jokingly refers to Canada as potential 51st U.S. state
- Gretzky’s past support for conservative politicians noted, but he remains politically neutral
Trump’s Playful Prime Minister Proposal
In a surprising twist of international politics, former U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that Canadian hockey icon Wayne Gretzky should consider running for Prime Minister of Canada. Trump shared this unconventional proposal on his Truth Social platform following a Christmas Day visit with “The Great One.” The former president’s suggestion comes at a time of political uncertainty in Canada, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau facing mounting pressure and declining poll numbers.
Trump’s proposal, while seemingly lighthearted, has caught the attention of political observers on both sides of the border. The former president went so far as to suggest starting a “DRAFT WAYNE GRETZKY Movement,” claiming it “would be so much fun to watch.” This playful intervention into Canadian politics is characteristic of Trump’s unorthodox approach to international relations.
Donald Trump says he urged Wayne Gretzky to run for prime minister in Christmas visithttps://t.co/VODMxrUUSg
— MSN Canada (@MSNca) December 25, 2024
Gretzky’s Political Neutrality
Despite Trump’s enthusiasm, Wayne Gretzky reportedly showed no interest in pursuing a political career. The hockey legend, who holds dual Canadian-U.S. citizenship, has maintained a largely apolitical stance throughout his post-NHL career. However, Gretzky’s past associations with conservative figures have not gone unnoticed.
“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.
Gretzky’s appearance at Trump’s election victory party wearing a “Make America Great Again” hat raised eyebrows in 2016. Additionally, he has supported Conservative politicians in the past, including former Prime Minister Stephen Harper. However, Gretzky has also demonstrated an ability to bridge political divides, having hosted events for former Liberal Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.
Trump’s suggestion comes at a tumultuous time 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 complicated matters for Trudeau’s 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 suggesting Gretzky for leadership. He has previously joked about annexing Canada as the 51st U.S. state, referring to Trudeau as “Governor” in a tongue-in-cheek manner. While these remarks are clearly meant in jest, they underscore the complex and often colorful nature of U.S.-Canada relations under Trump’s potential future presidency.
Don’t you just love how easy it is for Trump to get under the skin of foreign leaders?
