Summary

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem faced backlash for mocking Canada during a visit to the U.S.-Canada border in Vermont.

At the Haskell Free Library, which straddles both countries, Noem repeatedly stepped over the border line, declaring with a grin “U.S.A. No. 1” and calling Canada “the 51st state.”

Critics, including Canadian officials and social media commentators, condemned her remarks as insulting and unprofessional.

The stunt comes amid heightened U.S.-Canada tensions, with Trump imposing tariffs and openly suggesting annexation, prompting a strong response from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.