Doug Ford Confirms Danielle Smith’s Shift Toward Unity Amid U.S. Tariff Threats
OTTAWA — Ontario Premier Doug Ford has expressed confidence in Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s growing commitment to national unity as Canada braces for potential tariff measures from U.S. President Donald Trump. Following a virtual meeting of Canada’s premiers with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday, Ford emphasized the importance of presenting a united front against looming trade challenges.
Premiers Align on Strategy Amid Tariff Concerns
The meeting came in response to Trump’s recent executive order mandating a study of alleged unfair trade practices by Canada and Mexico, with a report due by April 1. Trump has hinted at imposing 25% tariffs as early as February 1, citing grievances over illegal drugs and migrants allegedly entering the U.S. from Canada.
Prime Minister Trudeau refuted these claims on Tuesday, noting that less than 1% of fentanyl and illegal migrants in the U.S. originate from Canada. Nonetheless, the federal government is preparing for various scenarios, including retaliatory tariffs to match any U.S. measures.
Speaking in Toronto, Ford reiterated the need for a robust response, stating, “We know these tariffs are coming Feb. 1. We need to match those tariffs dollar-for-dollar, tariff-for-tariff, and make sure that it hurts the Americans as much as it hurts Canadians.”
Danielle Smith’s Position Evolves
At a prior in-person meeting in Ottawa, 12 out of 13 premiers signed a joint statement supporting a united “Team Canada” approach. Smith, however, withheld her signature, citing concerns over the potential impact of retaliatory actions on Alberta’s energy exports.
Since then, Smith has taken a divergent path, meeting with U.S. lawmakers and advocating for cooperation rather than retaliation. On Wednesday, Ford suggested Smith is reconsidering her stance.
“She understands we need to be united, and I understand she wants to protect her main commodity,” Ford said. “But country comes first, over anything, and you can’t throw a tool away from the toolbox. I think we’re moving her along.”
Smith’s later social media posts reflected a mix of caution and calls for pragmatic solutions. She labeled the idea of taxing or restricting oil exports to the U.S. as “a disaster for Canada” and advocated for improved border security and increased defense spending.
Trump’s Shifting Rhetoric and Canada’s Response
Trump’s tariff threats stem from his claims of Canadian inaction on drugs and immigration, as well as his broader dissatisfaction with the U.S.-Canada trade deficit. While his administration’s rhetoric and timelines have been unpredictable, Trudeau assured reporters that Canada is prepared for various outcomes.
“We’ve made plans for a variety of scenarios and are ready to implement retaliatory tariffs,” Trudeau said.
The federal government recently allocated $1.3 billion to enhance border security, including deploying two RCMP helicopters for increased surveillance.
Calls for Unity Across Leadership
Prominent voices have underscored the need for a unified approach. Arlene Dickinson, a member of Trudeau’s advisory council on Canada-U.S. relations, expressed hope for Smith’s alignment.
“I think it’s incredibly important that we absolutely negotiate as one nation, together,” Dickinson stated during the federal cabinet retreat in Montebello, Quebec.
Smith, while reiterating her concerns, called for diplomacy in resolving trade issues. “Let’s dial back the rhetoric and focus on negotiating solutions that benefit Canadians and Americans,” she wrote.
Looking Ahead
Canada’s premiers have committed to weekly meetings to strategize as Trump’s administration continues its trade maneuvers. With the February 1 tariff deadline fast approaching, all eyes will remain on how Canada’s leaders maintain unity while safeguarding key provincial interests.
For the latest updates on Canada-U.S. trade relations and political developments, stay tuned.
Source : The Canadian Press
