Canadian politicians at all levels are supporting Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s stance on trade talks with the U.S. despite President Donald Trump’s reaction to an anti-tariff advertisement. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown expressed his backing for Ford’s approach, emphasizing the need to make a statement that garners attention. The advertisement, utilizing former U.S. President Ronald Reagan’s words, aimed to convey an anti-tariff message to American viewers.
Trump’s response to the ad included halting trade negotiations with Canada and threatening a 10% tariff increase. The President accused Canada of attempting to influence an upcoming U.S. Supreme Court case regarding tariffs imposed on Canada for national security reasons. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent labeled Ford’s actions as meddling in U.S. affairs during an interview on Face The Nation.
British Columbia’s Minister of Forests, Ravi Parmar, commended Ontario’s ad for its impact and noted plans for their own anti-tariff campaign. Prince Edward Island Premier Rob Lantz acknowledged Ford’s effectiveness in highlighting Canadian concerns but respected his decision to retract the ad. Liberal House leader Steven MacKinnon praised Ford’s patriotism and refrained from criticizing him.
Ford announced the removal of the ad from U.S. screens after the weekend, having achieved its goal of sparking a dialogue on tariffs. With Trump’s tariff threat looming, Canada must strategize to resume discussions and counter potential economic repercussions. Former deputy chief of staff Brian Clow suggested leveraging Ontario’s actions to re-engage with Trump positively.
As Canada seeks to recalibrate trade relations, Ambassador Frank McKenna hinted at Trump’s strategic move to disrupt negotiations. Prime Minister Carney’s efforts in Southeast Asia to diversify trade partnerships highlight Canada’s quest for economic stability outside U.S. dependencies. The importance of collaboration with the U.S. in future trade talks was underscored by Brown, emphasizing the necessity of exploring alternative trade avenues.
