Claim:
In his Super Bowl LIX interview, former President Donald Trump made the following claims:
- The U.S. pays “$200 billion a year, essentially in subsidy to Canada.”
- He is considering making Canada the 51st state.
- The U.S. is “not that rich” due to its $36 trillion national debt.
Fact:
Misleading and inaccurate. FactCheck360.com’s investigation reveals that Trump’s statements are not supported by official economic data or government policies.
🔍 What’s Going Viral?
During his Super Bowl LIX interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier, Donald Trump:
- Supported Elon Musk’s budget-cutting efforts targeting federal agencies like USAID.
- Claimed the U.S. subsidizes Canada with $200 billion annually.
- Suggested that making Canada the 51st state was a real consideration.
- Argued that the U.S. is “not rich” due to its rising national debt.
These comments quickly went viral, sparking widespread debates across social media platforms and news outlets.
🔎 FactCheck360.com Investigation:
1️⃣ The $200 Billion “Subsidy” to Canada Claim:
- The actual U.S. trade deficit with Canada in 2024 was approximately $63 billion (goods) and $41 billion when including services.
- A trade deficit is NOT a subsidy. It reflects the difference between what the U.S. imports from Canada and what it exports.
- Defense spending doesn’t account for this figure either—Canada’s total defense budget in 2024
2️⃣ Making Canada the 51st State:
- No official plan or policy exists for Canada to become a U.S. state.
Trump’s comment appeared to be rhetorical with no political backing.
3️⃣ “U.S. Isn’t Rich” Due to Debt: - While the U.S. has a $36 trillion debt, it also boasts the world’s largest GDP at $27.7 trillion.
Per capita wealth rankings place the U.S. 4th globally—only behind Luxembourg, Norway, and Switzerland. - Debt doesn’t equate to poverty; the U.S. remains an economic powerhouse.
⚠️ Conclusion:
Trump’s claims about U.S.-Canada trade, national wealth, and territorial expansion are false or misleading.
Always verify such statements before sharing.
