Vance calls Canada a 'state' a 'Freudian slip' amid trade tensions

Vice President JD Vance called Canada a "state" during an Aug. 24 rally in Maine, later describing the remark as a "Freudian slip." The comment came hours after President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Canadian auto imports to 50%, escalating trade tensions. Vance made the remark to laughter from the crowd, then claimed Canada would be "invaded by a foreign country" without U.S. protection. He criticized Canadian tariffs on Maine products, saying the U.S. would "fight back against unfair trade practices" from China or Canada. The rally followed a weekend of renewed trade conflict. The 50% tariffs on some Canadian goods took effect Aug. 22, covering about 5% of Canadian exports including wine, dairy, hockey sticks, and cement. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney suspended trade negotiations Aug. 21, blaming the U.S. for dismantling talks. Energy, potash, fish, and critical minerals are exempt.