JD Vance says calling Canada a 'state' was a 'Freudian slip'
Vice President JD Vance referred to Canada as a 'state' during a rally in Maine, later dismissing the comment as a Freudian slip. The remark occurred amid escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada following the implementation of 50% tariffs on various Canadian goods.
Why it matters
The comment highlights the strained diplomatic and economic relationship between the U.S. and Canada during an active trade war.
Hear this story As America's trade war with Canada reignited over the weekend , Vice President JD Vance added some fuel to the flames on Aug. 24 with what he described as a "Freudian slip," calling the North American country "a state."
Vance's comments came during a rally in Maine and only hours after President Donald Trump said he was doubling tariffs on imported automobiles and auto parts from Canada to 50%, further escalating a trade war that has erupted once again.
"We have to remember Canada is a state — sorry, Freudian slip," Vance said to laughter from the crowd. "That was actually an accident."
The 42-year-old vice president went on to claim that Canada would be "invaded by a foreign country" if not for the United States’ protection.
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