Trump Threatens New Tariffs on Canada Over Continued Airing of Anti-Tariff Ad
WASHINGTON D.C. – Former President Donald Trump announced he is considering additional tariffs against Canada, escalating a trade dispute sparked by an advertising campaign critical of tariffs. The conflict centers on a video ad run by the canadian province of Ontario that utilizes audio of former U.S. President Ronald Reagan discussing the negative impacts of tariffs.
Trump took to social media to express his frustration, stating the allegedly misleading ad was shown again “last night” despite previous calls for its removal. He characterized the continued airing as a “hostile act” and suggested Canada is attempting to influence U.S.judges currently reviewing his tariff policies.
the dispute began when Trump halted trade negotiations with Canada over the ad. The Ontario government initially suspended the campaign, with Premier Doug Ford announcing on Platform X (formerly Twitter) that following a conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Mark carney, the advertising would be paused starting Monday.However, Ford had previously stated the campaign would continue to air over the weekend, aiming to reach an American audience and initiate a discussion about the consequences of tariffs on workers and businesses.
The ad features audio from a 1987 radio address by Reagan, and has drawn criticism from The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute, which claims the recordings where used without permission and that Reagan’s statements were “selectively used” and misleadingly presented. The organization is considering legal action.
Trump is currently seeking support from the U.S. Supreme Court regarding his customs policy, after facing setbacks in lower courts. He alleges Canada is attempting to influence the court’s decision.
The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation through the imposition of new tariffs.
Source: dpa/jho