Following President-elect Trump's announcement regarding potential funding cuts for sanctuary jurisdictions, New York State Senator Liz Krueger (D) proposed a radical response: exploring secession and joining Canada. This suggestion, initially made to Politico, ignited a firestorm of reactions.
Krueger, chairwoman of the Senate Finance Committee, highlighted the substantial financial implications of Trump's proposed cuts, emphasizing the irreplaceable nature of the over $360 billion New York sends to the Treasury annually. She also pointed to the significant federal funding for New York's Medicaid subsidies. This financial vulnerability, Krueger argued, necessitates unconventional solutions.
Prior to the election, Krueger had entertained the notion of New York joining Canadian provinces like Quebec and Ontario, forming a new "southern province." This idea, resurfaced in light of Trump's victory, drew both criticism and mockery.
NYSGOP Communications Director David Laska dismissed Krueger's comments, characterizing her as "completely unserious." Others on social media echoed this sentiment, with some suggesting Krueger herself relocate to Canada. Political strategist Candice Giove even offered to purchase Krueger a one-way train ticket to Montreal.
Krueger's secession proposal extended beyond New York, envisioning a collective move with other liberal New England states to form a new Canadian province. She expressed admiration for Canada's progressive leadership, suggesting an alignment with the political leanings of the northeastern states.
However, Krueger later clarified her secession remarks as a "joke," while underscoring the seriousness of Trump's funding cut threats. She reiterated the potential devastating impact on New York, affecting healthcare, jobs, and infrastructure, and stressed the need for innovative solutions to protect New Yorkers from these policies.
Trump's "border czar"-designate, Tom Homan, affirmed the administration's commitment to enforcing immigration policies, warning of consequences for those who obstruct their efforts. Trump, during his campaign, had pledged to "save" New York and held a large rally at Madison Square Garden.
While Trump's overall performance in New York was limited, he did secure victory in a single Manhattan precinct, Two Bridges, a predominantly Asian American community. Meanwhile, some New York Democrats attributed Trump's success to the "far left" within their own party, arguing that progressive stances alienated some minority voters.
