Doug Ford, Ontario’s Premier, has emerged as a prominent critic of the “America First” trade policy advocated by U.S. President Donald Trump. Ford’s vocal opposition to this policy has made him a notable figure on American cable news. He’s been actively addressing the issue of U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods and emphatically asserting that “Canada is not for sale” in response to Trump’s suggestion of turning Canada into the 51st state.
Doug Ford comes from a well-known political family in Ontario. His father served in the provincial legislature, and his brother, Rob Ford, was a notable figure in Toronto politics. When Rob became mayor in 2010, Doug Ford took his place on the city council. Despite a scandal during Rob’s mayoral tenure, Doug successfully transitioned into provincial politics, becoming the leader of Ontario’s Progressive Conservatives and premier in 2018.
Initially, Doug Ford was known for his brash style and strong rhetoric against government spending, often compared to Trump’s approach. In a 2016 interview, he expressed a preference for Trump over Hillary Clinton. Over time, however, Ford has adopted a more bipartisan stance, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he worked closely with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government. This approach has helped him maintain popularity in Ontario.
Ford’s stance against Trump’s tariffs has become a focal point of his political agenda. As Ontario’s economy is deeply connected to the U.S., these tariffs have significant implications. Ford has launched multiple campaigns to highlight Ontario’s important trade relationship with the U.S., even initiating an advertisement series aimed at U.S. consumers to counteract Trump’s protectionist policies.
Beyond media appearances, Ford has taken concrete actions against the tariffs. Notably, he ordered U.S. alcohol off provincial liquor store shelves and encouraged Ontarians to support Canadian products. He also terminated a provincial contract with Elon Musk’s Starlink and barred American companies from collaborating with Ontario’s government. These actions underscore his commitment to protecting Ontario’s interests.
Ford’s strong rhetoric has often included colorful statements and symbolic gestures, such as wearing a “Canada Is Not For Sale” hat. He has threatened to cut off Ontario’s electricity exports to the U.S. if tariffs intensify, although he recently suspended a proposed surcharge after discussions with U.S. officials. Ford emphasizes the need for fair negotiations, pointing out how China benefits from the trade tensions between Canada and the U.S.
Doug Ford’s assertive actions against U.S. tariffs reflect his dedication to safeguarding Ontario’s economic interests. His approach involves both diplomatic efforts and bold statements to ensure that Ontario’s voice is heard on the international stage. Ford remains a central figure in challenging Trump’s trade policies, advocating for equitable discussions to foster a balanced trade relationship that benefits both Canada and the U.S.
