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President-elect Donald Trump has sparked a social media buzz by endorsing NHL legend Wayne Gretzky as a potential candidate for Canadian prime minister.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump shared his thoughts on Wednesday, suggesting that Gretzky, known as "The Great One" in hockey circles, would be an ideal choice to lead Canada.
"I just left Wayne Gretzky, ‘The Great One,’ as he is known in Ice Hockey circles. 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 wrote.
While Trump admitted Gretzky showed no interest in the idea, he encouraged Canadians to rally behind the hockey star. “I think the people of Canada should start a DRAFT WAYNE GRETZKY Movement. It would be so much fun to watch!”
Trump’s post comes amid increasing political pressure on Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to step down. Trudeau's government has faced significant challenges recently, including the resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland earlier this month.
The departure of Freeland, a key figure in Trudeau’s cabinet, has further fueled opposition calls for Trudeau to resign. Notably, Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party, has publicly urged Trudeau to step aside.
Trump also commented on Freeland’s resignation in a separate post, trolling the Canadian prime minister while reiterating his previous suggestion that Canada could become the 51st state of the United States.
"The Great State of Canada is stunned as the Finance Minister resigns, or was fired, from her position by Governor Justin Trudeau," Trump wrote, taking a jab at Trudeau.
Trump did not stop there, describing Freeland's tenure as toxic and suggesting her departure was for the better. "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!!!"
Interestingly, Gretzky was seen at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, last month following Trump’s presidential election victory. The hockey legend was photographed wearing a "Make America Great Again" cap, further fueling speculation about his political leanings and connection to Trump.
Although Gretzky has shown no interest in running for office, Trump’s endorsement has added a layer of intrigue to Canada’s political scene, which is already brimming with tension.
Many Canadians are speculating on social media about the idea of a Gretzky candidacy, while others see Trump’s comments as another instance of his penchant for stirring controversy.
As Trudeau navigates mounting criticism and calls for his resignation, Trump’s public comments have only added to the drama. Whether Gretzky entertains the idea of entering politics remains uncertain, but Trump’s post has undoubtedly captured attention on both sides of the border.
