This was a very shocking statement.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a stern warning to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau following President Trump’s imposition of tariffs on Canada and Mexico. Abbott cautioned, “Careful, Trudeau. The Texas economy is larger than Canada’s. And we’re not afraid to use it.” The Texas Governor’s message was clear: don’t underestimate the economic might of Texas, which stands as a key driver of the U.S. economy and would not hesitate to retaliate if necessary.
This warning came amid speculation that Trudeau might target Republican-led states with retaliatory tariffs, as part of his response to Trump’s tariff policies. In the end, however, Prime Minister Trudeau chose to implement tariffs on all U.S. goods. His government announced it would impose a 25% tariff on $155 billion worth of U.S. exports, including items like beer, bourbon, fruits, vegetables, perfume, and apparel.
While Trudeau expressed willingness to find a solution without tariffs, he has yet to engage directly with President Trump since the latter’s inauguration. The President’s recent tariff policies, which include a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports and a 10% tariff on energy products from Canada, are part of a broader strategy to address issues like illegal immigration and drug trafficking — challenges that are especially pressing in Texas.
Texas, grappling with a rise in fentanyl-related deaths and illegal border crossings, has seen firsthand the effects of unchecked immigration and crime. A 2022 study ranked Texas among the top states in fentanyl-related fatalities. In response, the state has been exploring more aggressive measures to combat illegal immigration, including plans to ramp up migrant bus programs aimed at swiftly processing and deporting illegal immigrants, instead of sending them to sanctuary cities.
Governor Abbott’s message underscores Texas’s readiness to protect its interests and push back against actions that threaten its economy and security.