New Poll Shows Americans Overwhelmingly Reject U.S. Territorial Expansion
A recent opinion poll conducted by Canadian research firm Research Co. has revealed that a significant majority of Americans are opposed to the expansion of the United States through territorial acquisition. This finding comes amid discussions sparked by former President Donald Trump's suggestions about absorbing other nations and territories during his potential second term in office.
Strong Support for Canadian Independence
According to the national online survey of 1,002 American adults conducted from January 13 to 15, 2026, only 7% of respondents expressed support for making Canada the 51st state of the United States. In contrast, a substantial 66% of Americans believe Canada should remain an independent nation, while 10% suggested the country could become a U.S. territory instead.
The polling data presents a clear picture of American sentiment toward their northern neighbor:
- 66% prefer Canada as an independent nation
- 10% would accept Canada as a U.S. territory
- 7% support making Canada an American state
- 17% remain undecided on the matter
Trump's Expansion Proposals Face Public Resistance
The poll specifically addressed several countries and territories that have been mentioned in recent political discussions about U.S. expansion. Former President Trump has repeatedly suggested taking control of Greenland for national security reasons and has spoken about making Canada part of the United States.
When asked about Greenland, more than half (56%) of poll respondents said they believe Denmark's sparsely populated Arctic territory should maintain its autonomous status. Only 7% would welcome Greenland as an American state, while 16% believe it should become a U.S. territory.
Mario Canseco, president of Research Co., noted significant political divides in the responses: "More than one-in-four Americans who voted for Donald Trump in 2024 (27%) are in favour of turning Greenland into a U.S. territory. Only one-in-10 Americans who cast a ballot for Kamala Harris (10%) share this view."
Broad Opposition to Expansion Across Multiple Nations
The survey revealed similar patterns of opposition when Americans were asked about other potential expansion targets:
- Mexico: 67% want it to remain independent, with only 5% supporting statehood
- Cuba: 57% prefer independence, while just 4% support statehood
- Panama: 54% favor independence, with 7% supporting statehood
Regarding Puerto Rico, which is already a U.S. territory, more than two-in-five (43%) respondents said the island should maintain its current status. About one-quarter (24%) suggested it should leave the U.S. and become an independent nation, while 17% would prefer to make it an American state.
Methodology and Context
The Vancouver-based polling firm conducted the survey using a national online methodology, asking American adults about their preferences regarding specific countries and territories. The question posed to respondents was: "As you may know, there has been some talk recently about America's relationship with other countries and territories. Thinking specifically about each of the following countries and territories, which option would you prefer?"
The options presented included Canada, Cuba, Greenland, Mexico, Panama, and Puerto Rico, with choices ranging from maintaining independence to becoming either a U.S. territory or an American state.
This comprehensive survey provides valuable insight into American public opinion at a time when discussions about U.S. territorial expansion have re-entered political discourse. The results suggest that despite political rhetoric about expansion, the majority of Americans prefer maintaining current international boundaries and respecting the sovereignty of neighboring nations.
