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By Marni Rose McFall
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Joe Rogan criticized President Donald Trump over his frequent calls for Canada to become the 51st state during an episode of his podcast with Canada’s Conservative leader, Pierre Poilievre.
Rogan said that Trump had "f***** up," and described the 51st state rhetoric as "nonsense."
Why It Matters
Trump has repeatedly pushed for Canada to join the U.S, first mocking former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau by calling him "Governor Trudeau," and then making the same proposal to new leader Mark Carney, as relations between the neighboring countries soured.
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The imposition of tariffs has also heightened tensions between the two countries, disrupting one of the largest and most enduring trade relationships in the world. Initial tariffs were introduced by Trump, with Canada later announcing a set of retaliatory tariffs.
What To Know
Poilievre, who at one stage was heavily favored in the polls, lost his own seat in Canada’s 2025 federal election as the Conservatives were decisively beaten by Carney’s Liberal Party.
Poilievre joined Rogan on his popular podcast The Joe Rogan Experience as part of his tour across the U.S., as he attempts to increase his international profile. He is currently lagging behind Carney in the polls.
Rogan, who endorsed Trump in the 2024 election and attended his inauguration, is no stranger to criticizing the president. He said that Trump had "f***** up," and that "I wonder what would’ve happened if he didn’t go along with that 51st state nonsense."
He added: "That is the narrative in this country, like I said, that if he didn’t do that, you would’ve won."
Poilievre, meanwhile, said that the rhetoric has been a distraction for relations between the two countries. "I just wish he’d knock that shit off so that we can get back to talking about the things that we can do, as two separate countries that are actually friends."
Rogan said that he had spoken with Trump on the phone about it, and that it is a "crazy thing to say."
Poilievre advocated for the removal of tariffs, telling Rogan that Canada could help the U.S. with its rising oil prices through the sale of more energy. "We should get the tariffs out," he said, adding, "there's so much we could be doing together as neighbors and partners."
What People Are Saying
Pierre Poilievre, speaking to Joe Rogan on the podcast: "Canada is not for sale. We’re never going to be the 51st state."
Joe Rogan, speaking on the podcast: "There’s a narrative in America, and the narrative is that you were about to win, and your party was about to win, but then Trump came along and said he was going to turn Canada into the 51st state, and everybody went crazy.
What Happens Next
Poilievre may go on to continue doing more high-profile media appearances in a bid to advance his public profile.
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