Some may take it as a negotiating tactic. Some may see it as a Swiftian “modest proposal” thrown out there to show how a measure of absurdity can sometimes provoke real thoughtful analysis of an existing problem. Some may think it’s just crazy talk geared toward getting headlines. Some may even think it’s a real proposal.

Canada, the 51st state.

Of course it is not a serious proposal. Canada has no desire to give up its independence and become just another state in the U.S.A.