The ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States intensified when Ontario Premier Doug Ford posted a video on social media featuring former U.S. President Ronald Reagan opposing tariffs. This occurred shortly after President Donald Trump declared he would halt all trade negotiations with Canada, claiming that an advertisement misrepresented Reagan’s views.
In his social media post, Ford emphasized the historical friendship between Canada and the U.S., stating, “Reagan knew that both are stronger together.” He provided a link to a speech by Reagan, delivered on April 25, 1987, in which the former president voiced his opposition to tariffs. This response came after Trump criticized an advertisement run by the Ontario government, which used excerpts from Reagan’s speech to argue against tariffs.
Trump’s assertion that the Ronald Reagan Foundation deemed the Ontario ads as “FAKE” amplified the dispute. He accused Canada of attempting to sway an upcoming U.S. Supreme Court ruling related to his global tariff regime. This latest escalation in rhetoric has further strained relations between the two nations, traditionally viewed as allies.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged the challenges posed by Trump’s tariff policies. He indicated that Canada is looking to diversify its trade by doubling exports to countries outside of the U.S. Carney remarked, “We can’t control the trade policy of the United States. We recognize that that policy has fundamentally changed from the 1980s.” His comments reflect a pragmatic approach to the evolving trade landscape.
The Ontario government allocated approximately CAD 75 million (around USD 54 million) for the advertisements that aired across various U.S. television networks. On October 5, 2023, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute publicly criticized the Ontario ad, stating it misrepresented Reagan’s original message and that permission had not been granted for its use. The foundation is now exploring legal options regarding the matter.
The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have had a significant impact on several Canadian industries, particularly aluminum, steel, automotive, and lumber sectors. Carney’s government remains open to negotiations aimed at reducing tariffs in specific areas.
Comments from political figures have underscored the divisiveness of the issue. Jason Kenney, a former Conservative cabinet minister in Canada, defended the Ontario advertisement, labeling Trump’s comments as “just embarrassing.” He maintained that the ad accurately reflects Reagan’s anti-tariff stance and criticized the Reagan Foundation for yielding to pressure from the White House.
The events surrounding this trade dispute illustrate the complexities of bilateral relations, with both nations navigating their respective economic interests while addressing the influence of political rhetoric. As the situation develops, the focus remains on how these tensions will shape future trade negotiations between Canada and the United States.
