President-elect Donald Trump has once again caused controversy with his recent spontaneous comments, suggesting that the U.S. should reclaim the Panama Canal, buy Greenland, and even consider adding Canada as the 51st state. Critics have responded with outrage, likening these remarks to outdated dreams of territorial conquest from the 19th century. However, it is important to understand that Trump’s remarks are meant to provoke rather than propose actual policies. Throughout his time in the political spotlight, Trump has used outrageous statements to capture attention and divert focus from his vulnerabilities. This latest round of provocative musings is in line with his typical style of communication.
The backlash to Trump’s comments demonstrates a misunderstanding of the current political landscape. Unlike the 19th century, modern America does not have a movement advocating for territorial expansion. The country’s demographics are changing, and debates about national identity are more diverse than ever. Trump’s presidency has signaled a shift towards prioritizing domestic issues over global interventions, as seen in his “America First” agenda.
Regarding Greenland, Trump’s idea to purchase the island is not a new concept, given its strategic importance. However, Denmark’s refusal to sell highlighted the impracticality of the proposal. The notion of incorporating Canada as a state is equally far-fetched, considering the strong sentiment of sovereignty among Canadians and Americans’ focus on other concerns like immigration and border security.
It is crucial to recognize that Trump’s remarks are more about stirring controversy than serious policy initiatives. Despite comparisons to historical expansionist ideologies, Trump’s intentions are more about generating attention and reinforcing his political image. By fixating on his sensational statements, critics inadvertently play into his strategy, amplifying his influence and diverting attention from pressing issues like polarization and democratic norms.
In reality, the feasibility of territorial expansion in the 21st century is limited by legal constraints, costs, and lack of public support. The conditions that once drove Manifest Destiny, such as population growth and economic incentives, are no longer prevalent. Trump’s comments should be viewed as theatrical rather than substantive, as the era of expansionism portrayed in the 19th century no longer aligns with contemporary political and cultural realities.
None of these drivers are present in modern America, where retrenchment and skepticism of global commitments dominate public sentiment. It’s time to stop treating Trump’s comments about Greenland or Canada as serious policy signals. They’re a joke, and the outrage they provoke is equally ridiculous. If critics want to challenge him, they need to focus on substantive issues and stop playing his game. The true challenge lies in addressing the real threats facing America — threats that Trump’s critics too often overlook in their eagerness to react. It’s time for a reality check: Trump is not manifesting destiny. He’s mastering the media, and the only way to counter him is to stop playing his game. Andrew Latham is a professor of international relations at Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minn., a senior fellow at the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy, and a non-resident fellow at Defense Priorities in Washington, D.C. 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
