How Serious is Trump’s Manifest Destiny?
Trump has the Panama Canal, Greenland, and Canada in his sights — and he isn’t just joking around.
Anthony Constantini
January 11, 2025
What’s happening: President-elect Donald Trump caught the world’s attention this week by leaving open the possibility of using economic pressure and/or the American military to take control of Greenland. This comes on the heels of other statements indicating a desire to absorb Canada and regain control of the Panama Canal.
Bargaining: Trump once called dealmaking his “art form,” and it’s important to view his statements in this light. Trump very likely has no desire to send the military to conquer any of these locations; however, all three have something he wants.
Canada: Canadians overwhelmingly do not want to be American. However, the Great White North has high tariffs on American goods while bemoaning America’s protectionism. Trump is likely taking a strong position as a negotiating tactic to sway Canada to drop those tariffs.