Staff Reports
Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford is having a lightbulb moment that could warm the hearts of conservatives everywhere. In a surprising twist, it appears Ford has decided to follow President Donald Trump’s lead in advocating for the removal of Canada’s hefty tariffs on U.S. goods. Just a month ago, the same Ford was making headlines for threatening to cut off the electric supply to Americans if Trump so much as breathed in the direction of imposing tariffs. Talk about a 180-degree turn!
In a recent exchange with CNBC’s Andrew Ross Sorkin, Ford confirmed that Canada is ready to fare down its tariff walls the moment Trump reciprocates. He made it clear that Canada is eager to eliminate tariffs, calling out America’s high charges while indicating that their willingness to negotiate is as strong as a hockey player’s grip on a stick. This shift is reminiscent of someone who decided that winning a game is better than losing a trophy match.
What prompted Ford’s newfound enthusiasm for free trade? It just so happens that Trump’s announcement of a new tariff regime lit a fire under him. Instead of keeping his fingers crossed and hoping for a magic wand to resolve trade issues, Ford is now on board with potentially driving toward zero tariffs. This sudden cooperation might not be the Hallmark card of friendship that liberals dreamed of, but it’s certainly a sign that Ford recognizes which direction the wind is blowing — right toward the land of opportunity south of the border.
Crying Uncle: Ontario Premier Makes Liberation Day Plea to Trump, Agrees to His Terms
“Tariffs give us great power to negotiate,” @realDonaldTrump said.
Looks like we're all getting a front-row seat to "The Art of the Deal." https://t.co/ElRkp8d97b
— Randy DeSoto (@RandyDeSoto) April 3, 2025
In a further show of complacency, Ford reiterated this new mantra during a CTV interview, where he shamelessly proclaimed that Canada is committed to aiming for zero tariffs. Clearly, Ford realizes that embracing American prosperity could have significant benefits for his own province, and he’s not afraid to say so. It seems that the power of tariffs, or perhaps the looming threat of them, is enough to bring even the most reserved politicians to the negotiating table.
Meanwhile, Trump has been basking in the glow of success, relishing the news that his tariff policies are indeed placing the United States back in the driver’s seat. The president emphasizes that these negotiations are about creating an environment where trade can flourish and win-win situations can abound. Ford’s recent admission signifies that while he may have been a skeptic, he now understands that America’s economic strength can translate into tangible advantages for Canada too. For Canadians tired of their government’s high taxes and skyrocketing costs, perhaps the idea of aligning more closely with America doesn’t sound so bad after all.
In the end, it’s Trump’s classic negotiation tactics in action, showing the world that sometimes, all it takes is a little bit of leverage to change minds across borders. Ford stepping onto the free trade train is a comedic reminder that even the most skeptical among us can eventually see the light — especially when there’s cash on the table.
