'We achieved our goal': Canada's Ford stands firm on Reagan anti-tariff ad

October 27, 2025

Ontario Premier Doug Ford defended his controversial anti-tariff television advertisement featuring Ronald Reagan quotes, claiming it achieved its goal despite angering President Trump and derailing trade negotiations between the US and Canada. Trump responded by suspending trade talks and announcing an additional 10% tariff on Canadian goods beyond existing levies, which already include 35% on most goods with various exemptions. Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated that negotiations were progressing well and term sheets were being exchanged until the advertisement aired, fundamentally changing the situation.

Who is affected

Ontario Premier Doug Ford
President Donald Trump
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney
Canadian businesses and exporters subject to tariffs
American consumers and businesses affected by tariffs
Ontario government
Patrick Brown, mayor of Brampton, Ontario
British Columbia Premier David Eby
US and Canadian trade negotiators

What action is being taken

Trump is suspending trade talks with Canada
Trump is imposing (or has announced) an additional 10% tariff on Canada
The US is imposing 35% tariff on Canadian goods (with most exempt), 50% on steel and aluminum, and 25% on automobiles
British Columbia is planning to run anti-tariff advertisements next month

Why it matters

This matters because the breakdown in trade negotiations and escalating tariffs threaten the economic relationship between the US and Canada, two closely integrated trading partners. The additional tariffs will increase costs for businesses and consumers on both sides of the border, potentially disrupting supply chains and raising prices. The conflict demonstrates how political messaging can derail diplomatic negotiations, and sets a precedent for other provinces to take independent action on trade matters that are traditionally handled at the federal level.

What's next

British Columbia plans to run its own anti-tariff advertisements next month regarding US levies on lumber
The timing and specific application of Trump's additional 10% tariff remains to be determined
A US Supreme Court case will weigh whether Trump's sweeping tariffs are legal

Read full article from source: BBC