Make Greenland Great Again Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Ogles, Andrew [R-TN-5]
- Committees
- Foreign Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jan 13, 2025
Bottom line
This bill grants the President authority to pursue the purchase of Greenland, initiating a formal process for a potential territorial expansion of the United States, subject to congressional review.
What it actually does
This bill authorizes the President of the United States, starting January 20, 2025, to initiate negotiations with the Kingdom of Denmark for the acquisition of Greenland. It establishes a process for congressional review, requiring the President to transmit any agreement to Congress within five days of reaching it, followed by a 60-day period during which Congress can disapprove the agreement via a joint resolution.
Proponents argue
Supporters would likely argue that acquiring Greenland is a strategic imperative for enhancing U.S. national security, expanding its geopolitical influence in the Arctic, and securing access to valuable natural resources. They might contend that such a move would strengthen the U.S. position against rival powers in a critical and increasingly accessible region.
Opponents contend
Opponents would likely argue that this proposal is impractical, diplomatically insensitive, and potentially costly, risking strained relations with Denmark, a key NATO ally. They might also raise concerns about the immense financial and logistical challenges of integrating a new territory and its population, diverting resources from more pressing domestic and international priorities.
The bill text is extremely short and straightforward, making it highly accessible for quick evaluation by any interested reader.
Section 2(a)
Authorization for Negotiations to Acquire Greenland
This section grants the President of the United States the explicit authority to initiate formal negotiations with the Kingdom of Denmark regarding the acquisition of Greenland by the United States. This authorization becomes effective at 12:01 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on January 20, 2025, signaling an intent for a new presidential administration to potentially pursue this diplomatic objective early in its term.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue this provision is essential to formally empower the President to pursue a strategic national interest, allowing for diplomatic engagement on a matter of significant geopolitical importance, particularly in the Arctic region.
Critics contend
Opponents might argue that such an authorization could be seen as an unnecessary provocation or an overreach, potentially straining diplomatic relations with Denmark before any substantive discussions even begin, given Denmark's historical stance on the matter.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for potential territorial expansion and strategic advantage against the risks of diplomatic friction and the significant financial and logistical challenges of such an acquisition.
Section 2(b) and 2(c)
Congressional Oversight and Review of Acquisition Agreement
This provision outlines the process for congressional oversight once an agreement for the acquisition of Greenland is reached. It mandates that the President must transmit the full agreement, including all related materials, to the House Foreign Affairs and Senate Foreign Relations Committees within five calendar days. Following this, Congress has a 60-calendar day period to review the agreement. If no joint resolution of disapproval is enacted within this timeframe, the agreement automatically takes full force of law, ensuring legislative oversight while providing a clear path for implementation.