Ontario Premier seeks meetings with Trump and Musk amid US trade threats

OTTAWA-Following President-elect Trump’s suggestion of using economic pressure to make Canada the 51st state, outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau dismissed the idea on social media. However, the strongest response to Trump’s proposal and planned 25% tariffs on Canadian exports has come from Ontario Premier Doug Ford.

Ford, a conservative businessman, described Trump’s targeting of Canada as “crazy” and “ridiculous,” advocating instead for strengthening the bilateral trade relationship to boost prosperity for both nations.

Responding to Trump’s annexation suggestion at a press conference, Ford jokingly countered with a proposal to purchase Alaska and Minnesota. He later admitted some Canadians suggested warmer locations like Florida or California, adding that California rarely votes Republican.

Ford asserted that under his leadership, Canada’s annexation would never occur. His government’s proactive response includes a multi-million dollar U.S. ad campaign highlighting Ontario’s value as a trade partner, emphasizing its energy resources and critical minerals.

Ford warned that Trump’s planned tariffs would harm both American and Canadian workers, citing the millions of Americans who rely on Ontario’s production. He attributed some trade imbalances to China’s practices and suggested retaliatory measures to counter the tariffs while acknowledging the negative consequences for both countries. He highlighted Ontario’s significant export volume to various US states.

Ford expressed his desire for meetings with President-elect Trump and Elon Musk, emphasizing Ontario’s substantial contribution to U.S. trade – approximately US$344 billion in 2023. He stressed the mutual benefit of stronger trade ties, especially regarding electricity and critical minerals.

Ford, who previously met Trump in 2012, views Trump as a shrewd businessman who understands Ontario’s importance. He noted the lack of opposition from U.S. officials to the Canada-U.S. trade relationship, suggesting Trump’s focus on Canada is potentially personal towards Trudeau. Ford also mentioned considering a future run for federal office.

Trump’s social media post asserting that the U.S. could no longer tolerate trade deficits and subsidies from Canada and Trudeau’s subsequent resignation were also noted. Ford emphasized that Trudeau, despite his impending departure, remains accountable to address the tariff issue with the other provincial and territorial premiers.

Ford chairs the Council of the Federation, which prioritizes Canada-U.S. relations and seeks to prevent the imposition of U.S. tariffs. The council highlighted the significant volume of daily trade between the two countries. To address Trump’s concerns about border security, Ford launched “Operation Deterrence” to combat illegal crossings, drugs, and weapons, acknowledging that a significant amount of contraband comes from the U.S.

Ford’s government is also cooperating with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration to identify the sources of fentanyl ingredients.