Thousands of Danes Sign Petition to Buy California from the U.S.

In a playful jab at former President Donald Trump’s past interest in purchasing Greenland, Danish citizens have started their own tongue-in-cheek movement—this time aimed at acquiring California.

An online petition advocating for the “Denmarkification” of California has reportedly attracted nearly 200,000 signatures. Supporters argue that the Golden State would be a perfect fit for Denmark, offering an abundance of sunshine, a thriving tech industry, unlimited avocado toast, and convenient access to Disneyland—an attraction they propose renaming in honor of Danish fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen.

A Lighthearted Counter to Trump’s Greenland Plan

“Ever dreamed of Denmark with palm trees, beaches, and roller skates? Well, now’s our chance,” reads the petition’s description, which humorously encourages Danish citizens to contribute to the ambitious $1 trillion price tag. That sum, according to the organizers, would require each Danish citizen to pitch in roughly 200,000 DKK (around $28,000).

The petition playfully suggests that executives from LEGO and the cast of the Danish political drama Borgen should lead the negotiations. To make the deal even sweeter, organizers promise a lifetime supply of Danish pastries for Californians willing to embrace their new Scandinavian identity.

This initiative is a direct response to Trump’s renewed interest in acquiring Greenland, a Danish territory he previously claimed was strategically important to U.S. national security. Many Republican lawmakers have also pointed to Greenland’s natural resources, such as oil, gas, and minerals, as a reason for the U.S. to pursue ownership.

Historical Tensions Between Trump and Denmark

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen previously dismissed Trump’s Greenland proposal as “absurd,” prompting Trump to cancel a planned visit to Copenhagen during his first term. Greenland’s leader, Múte Egede, has also firmly stated that the island is not for sale.

Despite these firm rejections, Trump and his allies have continued to push for Greenland to become part of the U.S., with the former president even claiming that most Greenlanders want American citizenship—a claim contradicted by polling in the region.

California’s Political and Economic Influence

While Denmark’s petition is purely satirical, it does highlight ongoing tensions between Trump and California. The state has consistently voted against him in presidential elections, and Governor Gavin Newsom has been vocal in opposing Trump’s policies. Trump, in turn, has frequently criticized California, calling it a “failed state.”

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If California were to somehow secede or be sold—an entirely unrealistic scenario—the impact on the U.S. would be immense. The state is home to the world’s fifth-largest economy and contributes more in federal taxes than it receives. It also plays a vital role in agriculture, technology, entertainment, energy, and transportation.

The Appeal of “New Denmark”

For Californians intrigued by the idea of joining Denmark, the petition humorously highlights potential perks: better public transit, a cycling-friendly infrastructure, socialized healthcare, and the cozy Danish concept of hygge. However, even Trump’s biggest critics would recognize that the U.S. would never let go of its most economically powerful state.

The petition closes with a tongue-in-cheek nod to Trump’s leadership style: “As for the will of the citizens? Well, let’s be honest—when has that ever stopped him?”

For now, Californians dreaming of Danish life will have to settle for a visit to Solvang, the small town in Santa Barbara County known as the Danish Capital of the U.S.

Layla Hango

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