Donald Trump took to Truth Social to address Canadians ahead of their national election. Mark Carney, who recently replaced Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister, faces off against Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in what’s shaping up to be a tightly contested race.

While Poilievre’s party once held a 25-point lead in the polls, Carney has significantly closed the gap. With the election too close to call, some speculate that Trump’s influence could play a surprising role in the outcome.

In his message, Trump suggested that Canada could avoid heavy tariffs if it became the “cherished 51st state” of the U.S. He praised Canada, said it would be “one of the greatest states,” and even promised that Canadians could keep their national anthem, “O Canada.” Trump criticized the historical border between the two nations as “an artificial line.”

Trump urged Canadians to elect a leader who would “cut taxes in half,” “quadruple” industries like steel and energy, and bring prosperity with “zero tariffs or taxes” if Canada were to join the United States. He added, “It was meant to be!”

Pierre Poilievre quickly pushed back, firmly rejecting Trump’s proposal. “The only people who will decide the future of Canada are Canadians,” Poilievre said, adding that Canada “will always be proud, sovereign, and independent” and would “NEVER be the 51st state.”

Meanwhile, Mark Carney has not yet publicly commented on Trump’s remarks. As Canadians head to the polls, Trump’s message has added a dramatic twist to an already high-stakes election.