All eyes are on Washington today as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to unleash a new round of “reciprocal” tariffs—sending shockwaves through Canada’s federal election campaign.
Liberal Leader Mark Carney has temporarily halted his campaign events to attend emergency meetings in Ottawa amid growing concern that Trump could reimpose broad tariffs on Canadian exports. The White House is expected to detail its next steps around 4 p.m. ET.
At stake: whether the current pause on sweeping 25% tariffs—and a reduced 10% rate on energy exports—will be extended or replaced with aggressive new levies targeting Canada and Mexico.
The uncertainty has gripped the campaign trail.
While Carney huddles with senior officials in Ottawa, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh is in Winnipeg where he’s set to join striking workers on a picket line and deliver remarks on trade justice and labour rights.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, meanwhile, remains in campaign mode, delivering a major policy address in Toronto and holding a rally later today in Kingston, Ontario.
Trump’s planned tariff announcement—originally forecasted in March—marks a pivotal moment for cross-border trade and for Canada’s political leaders, who are now forced to recalibrate their strategies mid-campaign.
This story is developing, with updates expected following the White House briefing later today.