A gamble by the Canadian province of Ontario to fight US tariffs has backfired spectacularly, prompting president Donald Trump to “terminate” all trade negotiations with Canada.
The ad, launched by premier Doug Ford, used a 1987 clip of Ronald Reagan warning against tariffs. It was intended to rally US public opinion against the 35% levies on Canadian goods that have damaged Ontario’s economy.
Instead, the ad drew immediate condemnation from president Trump. He called it “fake” and “fraudulent” on truth social, accusing Canada of “egregious behavior” and interference.
The ad also drew a rebuke from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, which said the “selective audio” “misrepresents” the former president’s message and was used without permission. The foundation is “reviewing its legal options.”
The suspension of talks, confirmed by secretary of state Marco Rubio, now leaves Canada in a difficult position. Prime minister Mark Carney has vowed to continue negotiating, but his primary partner has walked away from the table.
Ontario’s anti-tariff ad gamble backfires spectacularly
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