President Donald Trump has reignited his push to acquire Greenland, calling it an “absolute necessity” for U.S. security. But while Trump is focused on claiming the Arctic territory, Sen. Bernie Sanders, (I-VT), has a different suggestion: instead of trying to take Greenland, why not copy its progressive policies?
In a post on X, Sanders took a jab at Trump’s territorial ambitions, writing:
“Mr. President: Instead of stealing Greenland from Denmark, I have a better idea. In Denmark, everyone is guaranteed health care, college education is free, parents receive 1-year of paid paternity leave & workers don't make less than $22 an hour. Let’s steal those ideas.”
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Greenlanders Overwhelmingly Oppose Joining the U.S.
Even though Trump says Greenlanders “want to be with us,” a new poll says otherwise. A survey found that 85% of Greenlanders do not want to become part of the U.S., while only 6% support the idea. About 45% see Trump's interest in Greenland as a threat, while 43% see it as an opportunity.
Even when it comes to citizenship, only 8% of Greenlanders would trade their Danish passport for an American one, while 55% prefer to remain Danish citizens. The numbers make it clear—most Greenlanders want nothing to do with becoming part of the United States.
Denmark and Europe Push Back
Trump’s aggressive push for Greenland has sparked an international backlash. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has been meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and other leaders to make sure Greenland stays under Denmark. In a 45-minute phone call, Trump and Frederiksen argued, and European officials later called the conversation “horrendous.”
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Scholz cautioned that it is unacceptable to alter borders through force, citing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as an example. On Feb. 3, European leaders will convene to discuss Trump's plans for Greenland.
Why Does Trump Want Greenland?
Greenland is important for its location and its resources. The U.S. already has a military base in Greenland, called Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base), which is a key Arctic outpost. For Trump, controlling Greenland would mean strengthening America’s position against China and Russia.
Greenland is also rich in rare earth minerals, uranium, and oil. As the world looks for more of these resources, Greenland has become more valuable. Climate change is also making Arctic waters more accessible for shipping, adding to its economic potential.
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Denmark's Welfare System
Denmark has a strong support system for its people, but it means paying higher taxes. The government covers health care, free college, and paid parental leave through a system where wealthier people pay more. The top income tax rate is 55.9%, there is a 25% sales tax, and businesses pay a 22% tax.
In Denmark, students not only attend college for free but also receive a stipend from the government to cover living expenses. The country consistently ranks as one of the happiest in the world, with low crime, strong social programs, and a good work-life balance.
So, unlike the U.S., Denmark provides universal healthcare, tuition-free college and generous paid parental leave.
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While Trump is focused on acquiring Greenland, Sanders and his supporters argue that the U.S. should be paying attention to why Denmark and Greenland rank so high in quality of life.
For now, Greenland's government, backed by Denmark and the European Union, has made it clear that it's not for sale. Whether Trump will continue to push for control remains to be seen, but for Greenlanders, the answer is simple—they'd rather keep their autonomy, their benefits, and their way of life.
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