Copyright BuzzFeed
The Internet Is Collectively Rolling Their Eyes After Ted Cruz Made *This* Joke About Canada Becoming The 51st State — Because, Like, Can We Give It A Rest Already? Enraging Canadians is a skill. Doing it in only 7 words is even more impressive. As a stereotypical, optimistic Canadian, I truly thought we were past all that "51st state" nonsense. I really did. But it turns out, it might just be Americans' new favourite joke. In case you've been tuned out of politics (lucky you) and don't know what I'm talking about, back in Dec. 2024, Donald Trump began making comments about Canada becoming the 51st state of America. Needless to say, it offended (and shocked) many of us Canadians. Then, a few months later, a trade war between Canada and the US began — and the volume of "51st state" comments only increased. Not only was Trump himself continuing to talk about it, but it tons of Americans on the internet made it their new favourite comeback. Flash forward to today, almost a year later. Tariffs are still impacting people all across Canada, and tensions between the two nations are at a high. But on the bright side, "51st state" jokes have mostly subsided... ...until now. Senator Ted Cruz just brought the joke back, and Canadians are NOT having it. So let me explain. To most Canadians' surprise, the Toronto Blue Jays made it to the World Series this year, competing against the LA Dodgers in a fierce seven games, and ending with a brutal loss for the Jays on Nov. 1. It was our first time in the World Series since 1993, so despite the brutal conclusion, it was a huge deal for our entire country. But amidst all the sportsmanship from Canadian fans and gratitude expressed to the Jays for such an amazing ride, boom — our bubble was burst by the joke many of us simply can't stand. In an tweet on X the same day the Jays won, Ted Cruz responded to the LA Dodgers' win with: "Does this mean Canada becomes a state?" And although it was likely intended as a joke, Canadians did NOT find it funny. CAN YOU BLAME US??? So take this as your PSA, Americans: Please, let's stop with all the 51st state nonsense. We hate it. That joke can leave. And just like that last tweet said, let's just leave politics out of sports, 'kay? What are your thoughts on Ted Cruz's recent 51st state joke? Tell me in the comments below! And check out BuzzFeed Canada on on Instagram and TikTok for more! Elbows up, my friends!
