Trump’s Unexpected Suggestion for Canada’s New Prime Minister at Holiday Event

During a festive Christmas gathering, Donald Trump made a playful yet provocative suggestion that Canadian hockey legend Wayne Gretzky should run for Prime Minister of Canada. This idea, while humorous in nature, swung the spotlight onto Gretzky’s notable presence in both Canadian and U.S. political discussions. As talk of annexation and tariffs stirred political waters, the nation watched closely, eager to see how such speculation would unfold.

Trump’s Playful Proposal

Donald Trump, ever known for his bold and often unconventional ideas, suggested during a Christmas visit that Wayne Gretzky should run for Prime Minister of Canada. This suggestion was revealed through Trump’s Truth Social platform, where he rallied for a “DRAFT WAYNE GRETZKY Movement.” The proposal appeared more of a jest than a genuine political move, given Gretzky’s lack of interest in political office.

Gretzky maintains dual Canadian-U.S. citizenship, having enjoyed a successful NHL career primarily with the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings. Despite Trump’s proposition, Gretzky’s interest in politics appear minimal. He did, however, attend Trump’s election victory party donning a “Make America Great Again” hat, underscoring his friendly rapport with various political figures.

Trump and Canadian-U.S. Relations

The playful suggestion by Trump isn’t isolated but ties into a broader narrative involving U.S.-Canada relations. In recent interactions, Trump proposed that Canada could become the 51st U.S. state, with Justin Trudeau humorously referred to as “Governor.” Such rhetoric stems from past tensions, including U.S. threats of imposing a 25 percent tariff on Canada due to border security concerns.

These comments come amidst political turbulence in Canada, exacerbated by the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and mounting pressure on Prime Minister Trudeau. The Liberal Party is trailing significantly in polls against the Conservative Party. This backdrop adds gravity to Trump’s remarks, opening further speculation about potential impacts on Canada’s political landscape.

President-elect Donald Trump unwrapped a Christmas Day flood of reaction after he continued his revived feud with Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau by urging the Canadian people to start a movement to draft hockey legend Wayne Gretzky to replace him. https://t.co/OdbKFhzQ4X

— Raw Story (@RawStory) December 26, 2024

The Conservative Landscape and Gretzky’s Influence

Wayne Gretzky’s involvement in political circles, particularly his past support for conservative figures, adds an intriguing dimension to Trump’s suggestion. Gretzky has previously supported conservative leaders like Patrick Brown and Stephen Harper while maintaining connections with leaders from different political backgrounds, including Trudeau’s father, Pierre Trudeau.

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 capability to maintain diplomatic relationships across the political spectrum exemplifies his influence in both Canada and the U.S. Although he seems uninterested in actively pursuing a political career, his name being floated for Prime Minister signifies his stature in Canadian discourse.