U.S.-Canada Trade Talks Suspended Over Reagan-Themed Ad
President Donald Trump announced the immediate termination of all trade negotiations with Canada following the release of a television ad funded by Ontario’s government that criticized U.S. tariffs and quoted former President Ronald Reagan.
The minute-long ad, which aired in early October, featured excerpts from Reagan’s 1987 radio address warning against protectionist trade policies. Trump, posting on Truth Social, accused Canada of “egregious behavior” and using “fake advertising” in an attempt to sway U.S. court decisions on his global tariff policy.
Tariff Dispute Escalates Amid Legal Battle
The ad was launched just weeks before U.S. Supreme Court hearings on the legality of Trump’s trade levies. Trump has argued that the Ontario ad was a direct attempt to influence the judiciary.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that all trade talks with Ottawa have been suspended. Trump further stated, “Canada cheated and got caught,” referring to the use of Reagan’s voice without permission.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation also criticized the ad, saying it used selective and misleading clips and was produced without authorization. Legal options are reportedly being reviewed.
Background on the Tariffs
Trump initially imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods including aluminum, timber, cars, and steel. In August, those rates were raised to 35%, sparking renewed tensions with Canadian leadership.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford, a vocal critic of the U.S. tariffs, defended the ad campaign and emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two nations. “We’ll never stop making the case against American tariffs on Canada,” Ford said on Instagram.
Reagan’s Words Reignite Trade Debate
The Ontario ad featured Reagan’s warning that “trade barriers hurt every American worker” and linked past protectionism to economic hardship, including the Great Depression.
Trump cited this as evidence of Canadian interference in U.S. domestic affairs. Despite a recent meeting between Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, hopes for smoothing tensions appear to have collapsed.
Canada Responds to Trade Freeze
Carney expressed disappointment in Trump’s decision and pledged to continue working on internal trade reforms and export diversification. More than 75% of Canada’s exports go to the United States, with nearly C$3.6 billion in daily cross-border trade.
Carney has indicated Canada will shift its focus to strengthening domestic industries and seeking new international markets as U.S. tariffs take a growing toll.
Related Coverage
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
- Global News – https://idahonews.co/global-news/
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