Minnesota Residents Consider Joining Canada After ICE Actions | ‘Minnetoba’ Movement Gains Traction

Frustration is mounting in Minnesota following the deployment of federal immigration agents, leading some residents to consider a dramatic shift: joining Canada as its 11th province. The idea, recently revived by former Minnesota Governor and professional wrestler Jesse Ventura, reflects a growing discontent with federal immigration policies and actions.

Growing Calls for Change

The renewed discussion stems from recent events, including the shooting of two people by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minnesota this month. These incidents sparked protests and demands for ICE to leave the state, which shares a border with Manitoba and Ontario.

Did You Know? In March, a Minnesota resident wrote to the Twin Cities Pioneer Press suggesting the state become a Canadian province, citing shared cultural affinities like accents, climate, and a love for hockey.

President Donald Trump responded to immigration concerns by sending agents to cities near Minneapolis and St. Paul, initiating what has been described as a controversial crackdown.

Ventura’s Proposal

Jesse Ventura, who served as Minnesota’s governor from 1999 to 2003, believes the current situation makes the prospect of joining Canada increasingly appealing. He stated, “Rather than see Canada become the 51st state and lose their healthcare, I’d rather we all become Canadians.” Ventura suggests Canada would “be happy” to welcome Minnesota.

Residents have taken to online platforms to discuss the possibility, and John Vaughn of Stillwater, Minnesota, even created “Minnetoba” bumper stickers to playfully express his support for the idea.

Expert Insight: The calls for Minnesota to seek affiliation with Canada are a direct response to perceived overreach and aggressive tactics by federal immigration enforcement, highlighting a growing sense of alienation among some residents.

Legal Obstacles

Despite the growing sentiment, legal experts suggest the path to secession is fraught with challenges. Asa McKercher, chair of research on Canada-U.S. relations at St. Francis Xavier University, notes that the U.S. Supreme Court has previously ruled that a state cannot secede without the consent of all other states. The only other option would be to attempt separation through force.

McKercher emphasized, “No state has the right to act unilaterally in this way. So, legally, it simply isn’t feasible.”

Adding a layer of political commentary, Ontario Premier Doug Ford jokingly offered to purchase Minnesota and Alaska in January 2025 in response to threats from Donald Trump regarding tariffs and potential annexation of Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the discussion about Minnesota joining Canada?

The discussion was spurred by frustration over the deployment of federal immigration agents and recent incidents involving ICE agents, including the shooting of two people in Minnesota.

Who initially proposed the idea of Minnesota becoming a Canadian province?

Former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura recently revived the idea, though a resident, John Vaughn, initially suggested it in a letter to the Twin Cities Pioneer Press in March.

Is it legally possible for a U.S. state to join Canada?

According to Asa McKercher, it is legally “not feasible” for a U.S. state to secede and join Canada without the consent of all other U.S. states, or through the use of force.

As residents of Minnesota grapple with concerns about federal immigration policies, what role do you think regional identity and political sentiment play in shaping discussions about state or provincial affiliation?