Senator JD Vance acknowledged a "Freudian slip" during a rally in Maine on Monday, where he referred to Canada as a U.S. state while discussing escalating trade disputes between the two nations.
"We have to remember Canada is a state," Vance said to the crowd, before quickly correcting himself and stating, "Sorry, Freudian slip. That was actually an accident."
Vance's remarks came as trade negotiations between the U.S. and Canada have faltered. The U.S. imposed 50% tariffs on $20 billion of Canadian goods, with Canada vowing to retaliate with its own penalties starting September 8.
During his speech, Vance argued that current U.S. policy under the trade conflict disadvantages Maine. He accused Canada of engaging in unfair trade practices, including "ridiculous tariffs and other non-tariff duties on Maine products coming into Canada." He asserted that the U.S. must "send a message loud and clear to the prime minister of Canada: Stop taking advantage of the people of Maine... Stop taking advantage of America."
Vance also claimed that Canada underinvests in its military and relies on the United States for its security. He stated that the nation "quite literally would get invaded by a foreign country were it not for the umbrella of protection provided by the United States of America."
He concluded by saying the U.S. would "fight back against unfair trade practices, whether it’s coming from China or Canada."