The "Make Greenland Great Again Act" is a proposal that allows the U.S. President to negotiate with Denmark to buy Greenland. If an agreement is reached, Congress has a short window to approve or reject it. This bill is part of a broader conversation about U.S. strategic interests in the Arctic.
What This Bill Does
The Make Greenland Great Again Act, or H.R. 361, gives the U.S. President the authority to negotiate with Denmark to acquire Greenland. If the President reaches an agreement, it must be sent to Congress within five days. Congress then has 60 days to review it. If Congress does not disapprove, the agreement automatically takes effect.
This bill doesn't change any existing laws. Instead, it sets up a fast-track process for the U.S. to potentially acquire Greenland. The bill does not include any specific details about how the negotiations should be conducted or what terms should be included in an agreement.
The bill was introduced by Rep. Andrew Ogles and has 18 Republican cosponsors. However, it hasn't gained any support from Democrats. It's currently sitting with the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and there hasn't been much movement since it was introduced.
Why It Matters
For most Americans, this bill might not seem to have a direct impact on their daily lives. However, if the U.S. were to acquire Greenland, it could have significant geopolitical implications. Greenland's location is strategically important for military and trade reasons, especially as Arctic routes become more accessible due to climate change.
If the U.S. did purchase Greenland, it could lead to increased military presence and economic opportunities, such as mining for rare earth minerals. However, it could also strain relations with Denmark and Greenland's residents, who have expressed opposition to such a move.
Key Facts
- Cost/Budget Impact: There is no official cost estimate, but past proposals have speculated costs over $100 billion.
- Timeline for Implementation: The bill would take effect immediately upon enactment, but negotiations have no set deadline.
- Number of People Affected: Approximately 56,000 Greenland residents could be directly impacted.
- Key Dates: The bill was introduced on January 13, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- No Amendments: The bill remains unchanged since its introduction, with no proposed amendments.
- Historical Context: This proposal echoes past U.S. territorial acquisitions like Alaska and the Louisiana Purchase.
- Lack of Bipartisan Support: The bill has no Democratic cosponsors, highlighting its partisan nature.
Arguments in Support
- Strategic Security: Supporters argue that acquiring Greenland would enhance U.S. national security by providing control over Arctic routes and military bases.
- Economic Opportunities: Access to Greenland's natural resources, like rare earth minerals, could boost U.S. industries.
- Geopolitical Influence: Strengthening U.S. presence in the Arctic could counteract Russian and Chinese activities in the region.
Arguments in Opposition
- Sovereignty Concerns: Critics are worried that this move would violate the sovereignty of Greenland and Denmark, as Greenland's residents have shown strong opposition.
- Diplomatic Relations: There is a risk of damaging the U.S.'s relationship with Denmark, a key NATO ally.
- Cost and Feasibility: The bill lacks details on the financial cost and feasibility of such an acquisition, raising concerns about potential economic burdens.