US President-elect Donald Trump sparked a holiday uproar on Truth Social by suggesting Canadian hockey legend Wayne Gretzky should run for Prime Minister—or “Governor” of Canada, as Trump quipped. Reviving his long-running joke about Canada becoming the 51st US state, Trump’s remarks combined flattery, satire, and a jab at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
“I just left Wayne Gretzky, ‘The Great One,’ as he is known in Ice Hockey circles,” Trump wrote. “I said, ‘Wayne, why don’t you run for Prime Minister of Canada, soon to be known as the Governor of Canada – You would win easily, you wouldn’t even have to campaign.’”
Trump revealed that Gretzky, 63, wasn’t interested in entering politics but called on Canadians to launch a “DRAFT WAYNE GRETZKY Movement,” claiming it would be “so much fun to watch.” He took the opportunity to wish Trudeau a “Merry Christmas,” while mocking him as “Governor Trudeau” and criticizing Canada’s tax policies.
“Taxes are far too high, but if Canada was to become our 51st State, their Taxes would be cut by more than 60%, their businesses would immediately double in size, and they would be militarily protected like no other Country anywhere in the World,” Trump asserted.
Who is Wayne Gretzky?
Wayne Gretzky, nicknamed “The Great One,” is a symbol of excellence in hockey and one of Canada’s most beloved sports figures. Born in Brantford, Ontario, in 1961, Gretzky began showing extraordinary talent as a young player, often competing against older children and dominating games with his strategic brilliance.
Over his 20-year NHL career, Gretzky shattered records and won hearts, becoming the all-time leader in goals (894), assists (1,963), and total points (2,857). His achievements include four Stanley Cup championships with the Edmonton Oilers, nine Hart Trophies as league MVP, and 10 scoring titles. His legendary career culminated in a first-ballot Hall of Fame induction in 1999, with the league retiring his iconic jersey number 99 across all teams.
Gretzky’s non-political legacy
Though celebrated for his on-ice prowess, Gretzky has remained largely apolitical throughout his life. After retiring, he transitioned into roles as a coach, ambassador for hockey, and entrepreneur. Despite occasional public appearances with political figures, Gretzky has been careful not to wade into partisan debates—a stark contrast to Trump’s brash and divisive style.
This makes Trump’s suggestion all the more curious. While many fans relished the humor of imagining “The Great One” as a political leader, others were quick to criticize his association with Trump. A photograph of Gretzky at Mar-a-Lago wearing a “Make America Great Again” cap has only fueled the backlash.
Gretzky fans divided
While some Canadians saw humor in Trump’s comments, Gretzky’s association with the president-elect sparked outrage among others. Social media users expressed disappointment after Gretzky was photographed at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort wearing a “Make America Great Again” cap.
“Gretzky was my idol growing up, so this stings. A lot,” wrote one user on X. Another lamented, “You were the role model for decency and family… I will no longer think of you as one of the greats on and off the ice.”
Trump’s “51st State” joke and Trudeau criticism
Trump’s suggestion also reignited his trolling of Canada as the “51st state” and Trudeau as its “governor.” In his post, Trump jabbed Trudeau’s leadership and claimed that annexing Canada would resolve many of the nation’s challenges, including its tax policies and economic struggles.
“Thanks for dinner last night, President Trump. I look forward to the work we can do together, again,” Trudeau later posted on X, referencing a recent meeting at Mar-a-Lago where the two leaders discussed trade and the fentanyl crisis. Trump claimed Trudeau had made “a commitment to work with us to end this terrible devastation.”
Amid growing domestic challenges, including Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s resignation, Trudeau has faced calls to step down. Trump seized the opportunity to criticize Freeland, calling her departure a win for Canada. “Her behavior was totally toxic, and not at all conducive to making deals which are good for the very unhappy citizens of Canada. She will not be missed!!!” Trump wrote.
Gretzky’s potential as a leader
Although Gretzky has never entertained the idea of entering politics, his leadership qualities and universal admiration make him an intriguing hypothetical candidate. Known for his humility, sportsmanship, and work ethic, Gretzky embodies traits Canadians often seek in public figures.
“He’s not just a hockey legend; he’s a cultural icon who brought Canadians together,” said David O’Brien, a Canadian sports historian. “If he ever decided to run for office, he’d likely have widespread appeal.”
Still, Gretzky’s reluctance to engage in politics remains evident. Responding to Trump’s post, a source close to Gretzky stated, “Wayne is deeply honored by the respect, but he’s a hockey guy, not a politician.”
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