By Hodine Williams ( February 18, 2025, 3:06 PM EST) -- Let me get right to it: the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state of the United States is a fantasy better suited to remain in the realm of late-night TV debates and Internet memes. Sure, Canada and the United States share the world’s longest undefended border, a love of hockey (okay, mostly Canada), and a language (again, mostly), but that’s pretty much where the similarities end. Canada is a proud, independent nation with its own identity, values, and systems — none of which align with the idea of becoming part of the United States. But what if there’s a better, bolder alternative? Hear me out! What if Canada joined the European Union? Yes, the EU. Before you dismiss this as absurd, let’s dive into the facts, the hurdles and why this idea might not be as crazy as it sounds....