President Trump has made a decisive move: he announced a 10% increase in tariffs on Canada, taking a strong stand against their deceptive anti-tariff advertisement featuring Ronald Reagan. This provocative ad, which has stirred up tensions in one of the world’s largest trade relationships, misrepresents the late president’s views on tariffs.
The president didn’t mince words in his condemnation. He called out the Canadian government for launching a fraudulent campaign that distorts Reagan’s original speech, noting that it was a blatant attempt to interfere with a critical Supreme Court case concerning his administration’s tariff policies.
“Canada was caught, red-handed,” Trump stated emphatically on Truth Social. “The ad misrepresents the Presidential Radio Address and did not receive any permission for its alterations.” The Reagan Foundation’s concern reflects a serious violation of integrity, and they are actively exploring legal options in this matter.
Trump declared, “Their Advertisement was to be taken down, IMMEDIATELY,” criticizing Canada for allowing it to air during the World Series, fully aware of its fraudulent nature. He warned that, due to this egregious misrepresentation, U.S. tariffs on Canada will rise by an additional 10%.
While the exact details of the new measure remain unclear, we know that most Canadian goods are exempt from the regular base tariff of 35% under the USMCA. However, Canadian steel and aluminum products are not shielded—nor are many cars and trucks produced north of the border.
In response, Candace Laing, head of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, lamented the escalation, stating that tariffs are detrimental to American taxpayers and North American competitiveness. She called for diplomatic resolution, but it is clear that the president is not inclined to negotiate under such circumstances.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is actively seeking a resolution. He engaged in talks with Trump to lower tariffs and promised a pause on Ontario-funded ads. Yet, sources indicate that negotiations have hit a wall, and Trump is frustrated with the lack of progress.
Trump’s decision comes at a critical juncture; the Supreme Court is set to hear a case challenging his global tariffs on November 5, an issue with significant implications for his reelection and economic agenda. Any ruling against him could result in a financial catastrophe for U.S. companies, forcing the government to issue refunds for billions in duties.
Trump’s denunciation of the Ontario advertisement, which twisted Reagan’s views on trade, underscores his commitment to protecting American interests. While Reagan once imposed selective tariffs on foreign electronics, the twisted usage of his words in this context represents a deliberate mischaracterization.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation has voiced its disapproval, asserting that the ad misrepresents Reagan’s entire address. They are right to consider legal action; misleading the public through an edited narrative is unacceptable.
As Trump embarks on a crucial trip to Asia, he reiterated his resolve to prioritize American economic interests over diplomatic politeness, making it clear that he has no intention of engaging with Carney anytime soon.
