Ontario premier demands apology from US ambassador over tariff 'tirade'

October 30, 2025

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is demanding that US Ambassador Pete Hoekstra apologize to Ontario's trade representative David Paterson after a reported profanity-filled confrontation about a government-funded television advertisement. The commercial, which aired during major sporting events and quoted Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs, was designed to influence American public opinion in conservative regions against President Trump's trade policies. The ad campaign prompted Trump to suspend trade negotiations with Canada and threaten an additional 10% tariff on top of existing levies, though most Canadian goods remain exempt under current trade agreements.

Who is affected

Ontario Premier Doug Ford
US Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra
Ontario trade representative David Paterson
President Donald Trump and his administration
Canadian exporters and businesses
American consumers who purchase Canadian goods
The Ontario government
US Senate members who voted on the tariff resolution

What action is being taken

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is demanding an apology from Ambassador Hoekstra
The Ontario government is running television advertisements criticizing Trump's tariffs
President Trump is threatening to impose an additional 10% tariff on Canadian imports
The US is maintaining current tariffs of 35% on most Canadian goods (with exemptions), 50% on steel and aluminum, and 25% on automobiles

Why it matters

This dispute represents a significant escalation in trade tensions between the United States and Canada, two countries with deeply integrated economies. The conflict threatens to disrupt the existing free trade framework that has governed commerce between the nations, potentially raising costs for businesses and consumers on both sides of the border. Ford's advertising campaign demonstrates how subnational governments are taking unprecedented steps to directly influence American political opinion, while Trump's response shows his willingness to use tariffs as retaliatory measures even against close allies. The breakdown in diplomatic civility between officials also signals deteriorating relationships that could have long-term implications for North American trade cooperation.

What's next

The tariff resolution will move to the US House of Representatives for consideration (though it is unlikely to receive sufficient support)
President Trump has indicated he will decide when additional tariffs will "kick in" but has not specified timing

Read full article from source: BBC