Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL), a prominent ally of Donald Trump, reportedly stood up to the President-elect during a recent discussion, firmly rejecting Trump’s controversial idea of making Canada the 51st state. The proposal, floated by Trump in several interviews, has faced skepticism from Republican lawmakers, including Donalds, who shared his concerns directly with Trump at a Mar-a-Lago dinner.
Donalds, once rumored to be a potential vice-presidential pick before J.D. Vance was ultimately chosen, often defends Trump in media appearances. However, he voiced strong opposition to the Canada proposal, citing potential political ramifications.
“I said, ‘Mr. President, the Canadians, are going to elect two Democrat senators; we don’t want that. Territory status isn’t too bad,’” Donalds reportedly said in an interview following the dinner. The dinner at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort was described by Politico as a “lavish” event, attended by key Republican lawmakers often at odds with House Speaker Mike Johnson.
Among the guests were Freedom Caucus Chair Andy Harris (R-MD), Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-OH), Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX), and Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC), who had recently opposed Johnson’s speakership before relenting under Trump’s influence.
According to reports, the dinner served as a strategy session for Trump and his closest congressional allies, with discussions covering a range of topics. However, the proposal to annex Canada was met with a “chilly reception,” underscoring divisions within the Republican Party over Trump’s more unconventional ideas.
Donalds’ response reflects broader concerns among Republicans about the political implications of incorporating Canada into the U.S. “The Canadians, they are going to elect two Democrat senators” is a sentiment that highlights fears of altering the Senate’s political balance, potentially bolstering Democratic influence.
While Trump has a reputation for introducing bold and unorthodox proposals, the resistance from Donalds and others suggests limits to how far his ideas will be embraced, even by loyal allies.
The interaction also showcases Donalds’ willingness to challenge Trump directly, despite his staunch support for the president-elect. As Trump prepares to re-enter the White House, these moments of dissent among his allies may signal ongoing debates within the GOP over the direction of his administration.