Ontario Premier Doug Ford Criticizes U.S. Tariffs and Trade War Impact

Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed opposition to President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canada, stating that a trade war could negatively impact both the U.S. and Canada. "Everyone's feeling bullied by President Trump, and this is the worst thing you could do for the American economy," Ford told ABC News' Martha Raddatz. He described the situation as "absolutely backwards." The U.S. and Canada are currently engaged in a trade dispute, with Trump announcing a 50% tariff on many Canadian goods following failed trade negotiations. Canada has responded with retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods effective September 8. The U.S. is Canada's largest trading partner, with over 70% of Canadian exports going to the U.S. and nearly 60% of Canadian imports coming from the U.S. Ford highlighted that 60% of U.S. crude oil imports come from Canada, emphasizing the importance of the trade relationship. In response to a question about a recent U.S.-Venezuela oil deal, Ford stated, "That's going to be up to President Trump. Who do you want to deal with? An unstable government like Venezuela, or do you want to deal with your No. 1 trading partner, your No. 1 ally?" Trump also announced plans to double auto tariffs on Canada starting January 1, 2027, which Ford warned would be "devastating" for both countries, particularly for the U.S., which is the largest purchaser of vehicles from Canada. Ford remarked that a tariff on Canada would act as a tax on American consumers. Additionally, Ford criticized Trump's recent decision to rename Lake Ontario to "Lake America," calling it "disappointing" and likening it to a sketch from "Saturday Night Live." He affirmed his affection for the American people while expressing discontent with the U.S. government, stating, "I love the American people. Canadians love the American people."