Trump’s “America First” Policy Pressures Canada to Step Up on Trade and Border Security
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is calling for Canada to end its tariffs on U.S. goods—but only if President Trump does the same. The timing is no coincidence. His statement came just ahead of Trump’s highly anticipated “Liberation Day” economic address, which is expected to redefine America’s global trade relationships.
“President Trump’s tariffs will put millions of American jobs at risk and raise costs for families across the U.S.,” Ford posted on X, urging cooperation between the two nations.
Ford added, “Let’s work together to become the richest and safest countries on the planet.”
Canada Calls for Free Trade, But Can’t Deliver Without Ottawa
Doug Ford currently chairs the Council of the Federation, which includes leaders from all 13 Canadian provinces and territories. However, the power to change national tariff policy rests solely with Canada’s Liberal Prime Minister, Mark Carney.
Carney’s message was far less cooperative: “Fight. Protect. Build.”
A clear indication that Canada may not be backing down easily.
Trump’s Tariff Plan: Fair Trade or No Trade
President Trump’s administration has not yet released the full details of its global reciprocal tariff package, but the approach is clear: match what other countries charge the U.S.—or get left behind.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday that the president remains open to negotiations with any country “ready to deal fairly.”
“President Trump is always open to a phone call,” she stated.
Canada, long seen as a close U.S. ally, has nonetheless found itself in the crosshairs of Trump’s tougher trade rules. And it’s not just about tariffs—it’s about border security, illegal drugs, and national sovereignty.
Fentanyl and the Border: A Major Sticking Point
Just before the April 2 announcement, President Trump warned that unless Canada took serious action to stop the flow of fentanyl across the border, the U.S. would impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods.
This hardline stance reflects growing concerns about border security, national health, and economic fairness. Conservative voters, especially seniors and retirees, are paying close attention to these issues—as they should.
Ford’s Misstep with American Energy Customers
Last month, Premier Ford made headlines when he proposed a 25% surcharge on U.S. customers in Michigan, Minnesota, and New York who receive electricity from Ontario. The backlash was swift and loud.
Ford ultimately reversed course, offering a public apology to the American people, saying the move was misguided and not reflective of the deep friendship between the two nations.
Trump’s America First Trade Policy Is Working
President Trump’s push for fair trade, strong borders, and Made in America manufacturing is reshaping the world economy. His supporters say it’s about time.
After years of watching U.S. jobs outsourced and foreign countries take advantage of one-sided deals, Trump is delivering real accountability.
As the president likes to say, “We want trade—but it has to be fair.”
Final Thoughts: The Ball Is in Canada’s Court
Doug Ford may want free trade—but until Canada tightens its border and stops the inflow of dangerous drugs, Trump’s America First policies aren’t going anywhere.
America deserves fair deals, secure borders, and economic leadership—and under President Trump, that’s exactly what we’re getting.