Jesse Ventura Backs Minnesota’s Unconventional Bid to Join Canada

MINNEAPOLIS (Azat TV) – Minnesotans are seriously considering an unconventional proposal for their state to join Canada, a movement significantly amplified by former Governor Jesse Ventura amid escalating tensions with the Trump administration over federal immigration enforcement. The idea, once a subject of lighthearted jokes, has gained substantial traction as residents express growing discontent with federal actions, particularly those involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

Rising Tensions and the Call for Change

The push to explore a union with Canada stems from heightened public outrage over recent incidents involving ICE agents in Minnesota. Minneapolis has become a focal point for nationwide debates on immigration enforcement, following two fatal shootings involving ICE agents. These events have sparked intense protests, with demonstrators demanding the withdrawal of federal agents from the state.

The federal government’s controversial immigration policies have created a climate of significant tension, leading many Minnesotans to seek alternative solutions. The sentiment of discontent is profound, with some locals describing the aggressive immigration actions in their state as akin to an invasion, fueling a desire for a different political alignment.

Jesse Ventura’s Vision for ‘Minnetoba’

Former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura, known for his unconventional and often outspoken views, has emerged as a prominent voice advocating for this radical proposal. On a recent podcast, Ventura suggested that instead of Canada becoming part of the United States, it might be time for Minnesota to become Canada’s 11th province. He highlighted the numerous similarities between Minnesota and its northern neighbor, expressing confidence that Canadians would warmly welcome Minnesotans into their federation.

Ventura’s endorsement lends significant weight to a concept that has historically been discussed in jest among Minnesotans. His public support underscores the seriousness with which this proposition is now being considered by a segment of the population, transforming it from a mere thought experiment into a more tangible, albeit complex, political aspiration.

Public Sentiment and Cross-Border Ties

The notion of Minnesota joining Canada resonates deeply with many residents, who point to long-standing cultural and geographical ties. John Vaughn, a Stillwater resident, emphasized the parallels between Minnesota and Canadian provinces, noting shared cultural characteristics like accents and sports preferences, as well as similar climates. Vaughn even humorously proposed naming the new province “Minnetoba,” a portmanteau reflecting the affinity between Minnesota and Manitoba.

For many years, the idea of Minnesota becoming part of Canada was largely a humorous online discussion. However, current events, particularly the perceived overreach of federal immigration policies, have made this once ‘half-joking’ concept appear far more plausible to a growing number of residents. The close geographic proximity to Canada further reinforces the natural connection many Minnesotans feel with their northern neighbors.

Legal Hurdles and Political Reactions

While public sentiment and prominent endorsements like Ventura’s have propelled the discussion, experts caution that the legal and constitutional barriers to such a move are substantial. Asa McKercher, a researcher specializing in U.S.-Canada relations, acknowledged the commonalities between Minnesotans and Canadians but stressed that actual secession would be impossible without significant agreements among states, a process fraught with constitutional challenges.

Despite the legal complexities, the discussion has even reached political circles. Ontario Premier Doug Ford humorously quipped about the idea, proposing to ‘buy’ Minnesota in light of U.S. tariffs. While lighthearted, such comments reflect the growing international awareness of the unique political discourse unfolding in Minnesota. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing protests continuing to underscore the urgency of the issue for many Minnesotans, ensuring that the dialogue surrounding the state’s place within the U.S. continues to evolve.

The emergence of such a radical proposal, supported by a prominent figure like Jesse Ventura, underscores the depth of discontent among some Minnesotans with federal policies, elevating a once-humorous notion into a serious, albeit legally complex, expression of political alienation.