Satirical campaign takes aim at Trump’s Greenland proposal
Danish citizens have launched a satirical campaign to “buy” California, the United States’ most economically powerful state, in retaliation to President Donald Trump’s past attempts to purchase Greenland. The campaign, dubbed Denmarkification, aims to raise $1 trillion to acquire California and rename it “New Denmark.”
A playful take on political real estate
The campaign’s website highlights the appeal of California, citing its 300 days of sunshine, thriving technology sector, and beloved avocado toast culture. In a humorous twist, it also proposes renaming Disneyland to Hans Christian Andersenland, paying homage to Denmark’s famous fairy tale writer.
“Have you ever looked at a map and thought, ‘You know what Denmark needs? More sunshine, palm trees, and roller skates.’ Well, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make that dream a reality,” reads the campaign’s website. “Let’s buy California from Donald Trump!”
Trump’s history with California fuels satire
The campaign plays on Trump’s long-standing tensions with California. The website notes, “Trump isn’t exactly California’s biggest fan. He’s called it ‘the most ruined state in the Union’ and has feuded with its leaders for years. We’re pretty sure he’d be willing to part with it for the right price.”
Danish proponents of the campaign suggest that if successful, California would embrace New Denmark’s progressive values, including universal healthcare, strong environmental policies, and evidence-based governance.
Greenland: The catalyst for Denmark’s counteroffer
Trump’s 2019 interest in purchasing Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, sparked controversy and diplomatic tensions. Greenland, home to a crucial U.S. military base, has long been a strategic asset for NATO. Trump’s suggestion that Denmark had no legitimate claim over Greenland further inflamed the discussion.
While Denmarkification is a humorous response to Trump’s past bid, it has gained traction online, with thousands of Danes expressing their enthusiasm for the idea—however fictional it may be.