Ontario Premier Doug Ford has expressed his desire for a more assertive stance from his counterparts and Prime Minister Mark Carney in response to the recent tariff threat by U.S. President Donald Trump. At a gathering of premiers in Charlottetown, Ford strongly criticized Trump’s plan to impose 50 percent tariffs on numerous Canadian goods, set to take effect next month.
Ford emphasized the need for a united “Team Canada” approach, led by the prime minister, to tackle the situation effectively. He urged for increased vocal opposition from all parties involved. Ford stated that he often feels isolated in defending Canada and stressed the importance of collective action.
While Ford advocated for Canada to halt energy exports to the U.S. as a retaliatory measure, other premiers were less inclined to support such aggressive tactics. New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt acknowledged energy leverage as a potential tool in Canada’s arsenal, while Alberta’s Danielle Smith dismissed the idea outright.
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe and Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette also rejected the notion of using potash and energy exports as bargaining chips. Ford, however, maintained that all options should be considered in negotiations with Trump.
Despite Ford’s call for a unified front, he denied any fracturing within Team Canada, emphasizing strong relationships among the premiers. He underscored the importance of Carney leading the charge in formulating a robust response to Trump’s tariff threats.
Carney is scheduled to meet with the premiers to discuss the escalating situation, although Ford does not anticipate a fully developed plan at this stage. After speaking with Trump post-announcement of the tariffs, Carney revealed plans to ramp up negotiations in the coming weeks.
With the deadline for renewing the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement passed, discussions are ongoing to secure a renewed agreement before the end of the year. The new tariffs are set to be enforced on August 19, prompting urgency in finding a resolution to the trade dispute.
