US President-elect Donald Trump sparked a holiday outcry on Truth Social by suggesting French hockey star Wayne Gretzky may work for Prime Minister—or” Governor” of Canada, as Trump quipped. Reviving his long-running prank about Canada becoming the 51st US position, Trump’s comment combined politeness, sarcasm, and a shot at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
” I just left Wayne Gretzky,’ The Great One,’ as he is known in Ice Hockey loops”, Trump wrote. ” I said,’ Wayne, why don’t you work for Prime Minister of Canada, rapidly to become known as the Governor of Canada – You may win easily, you doesn’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 hope Trudeau a” Merry Christmas”, while mocking him as” Governor Trudeau” and attacking Canada’s tax laws.
Trump claimed that while income are far too great, Canada may reduce its taxes by more than 60 %, their businesses had immediately double in size, and they would be diplomatically protected like no other nation in the world.
Who is Wayne Gretzky?
Wayne Gretzky, nicknamed” The Excellent One”, is a symbol of greatness in soccer and one of Canada’s most precious sports numbers. Born in Brantford, Ontario, in 1961, Gretzky began showing unusual ability as a fresh player, generally competing against older children and dominating games with his proper 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 accomplishments include four Stanley Cup titles with the Edmonton Oilers, nine Hart Trophies as division MVP, and 10 championship victories. His famous job culminated in a first-ballot Hall of Fame training in 1999, when the group retired his recognizable jersey number 99 from all competitions.
Gretzky’s non-political tradition
Gretzky has mostly remained nonpartisan throughout his life despite being renowned for his on-ice prowess. After retiring, he transitioned into functions as a mentor, ambassador for soccer, and investor. In stark contrast to Trump’s abrasive and controversial style, Gretzky has been careful to avoid waving into political debates despite making occasional public appearances with democratic figures.
This makes Trump’s idea all the more interested. While some fans reacted favorably to” The Great One “‘s” portrayal of a political leader, others quickly criticized his association with Trump. A photo of Gretzky at Mar-a-Lago wearing a” Make America Great Afterwards” cap has merely fueled the reaction.
Gretzky viewers divided
While some Canadians saw humor in Trump’s opinions, Gretzky’s connection with the president-elect sparked anger among others. After Gretzky was spotted wearing a” Make America Great Afterwards” cap at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago location, social media users expressed sorrow.
” Gretzky was my hero growing up, but this stings. A lot”, wrote one person on X. Another opined,” You were the role model for home and decency… I will no longer believe of you as one of the classics on and off the snow,” according to another.
Trump’s “51st Express” prank and Trudeau criticism
Trump’s idea even reignited his teasing of Canada as the “51st condition” and Trudeau as its “governor”. In his blog, Trump had jabbed Trudeau’s management and claimed that conquering Canada would solve many of the world’s challenges, including its duty policies and financial struggles.
” Thanks for dinner last night, President Trump. I look forward to the work we can do together once more,” Trudeau after wrote on X, citing a recent conference at Mar-a-Lago where the rulers discussed industry and the fentanyl crisis. Trudeau allegedly stated that he had made” a determination to work with us to end this horrible devastation.”
Amid growing regional issues, including Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s departure, Trudeau has faced calls to step down. Trump blasted Freeland as a victory for Canada, taking advantage of the opportunity. Her conduct was” total dangerous” and” not at all helpful in making deals that would benefit Canada’s genuinely unhappy citizens.” She will not be missed!!”! Trump wrote.
Gretzky’s ability as a chief
Although Gretzky has always considered entering politics, his command prowess and widespread enthusiasm make him an amazing potential applicant. Known for his modesty, fairness, and labor drive, Gretzky embodies qualities Canadians generally seek in public figures.
” He’s not just a sports story, he’s a social icon who brought People together”, said DavidO’Brien, a Canadian sports writer. ” If he ever decided to run for office, he’d probably have common appeal”.
However, Gretzky’s reluctance to engage in politics remains visible. Responding to Trump’s article, a cause close to Gretzky stated,” Wayne is greatly honored by the admiration, but he’s a sport person, not a politician”.
