For months now, American president Donald Trump has been saying that Canada should become part of the United States. 

At first, many treated it as a joke.

But now, as Canadians might say, the gloves are off. Its leaders have hit back, forcefully. And Canadian comedian Mike Myers sparked a viral social movement that has swept the country, after he appeared on Saturday Night Live, motioned to his arms, and mouthed the words: “Elbows up!”

Today, former Higher Commissioner to Canada, Scott Ryan, on just how much damage Trump can do to Canadian sovereignty. And whether his threats might help determine who becomes the next Canadian prime minister.