Ontario Premier Doug Ford has urged the federal government to move more swiftly in meeting U.S. border security demands, particularly the appointment of a “border czar” to oversee tightened security measures along the Canada-U.S. border.
Speaking from Scarborough on the provincial campaign trail Friday, Ford expressed frustration over what he perceives as delays in federal action, emphasizing that the Trump administration has made its expectations clear regarding border security enhancements.
“The federal government says we’re going to get a border czar. That’s what the Trump administration wants,” Ford stated. “What takes four days to figure this out? Announce a border czar.”
Ford’s remarks come amid renewed U.S. pressure on Canada, following President Donald Trump’s recent threats to impose steep tariffs over concerns about drug trafficking and migrant crossings at the northern border. Trump temporarily paused the tariffs for a month, allowing Canada time to demonstrate progress on addressing U.S. security concerns.
The Canadian government has already announced a $1.3-billion plan aimed at strengthening border security and surveillance, as well as additional measures this week, including the appointment of a “fentanyl czar” to combat the manufacturing and trafficking of the deadly opioid.
Despite these moves, Ford insists that faster action is needed to satisfy U.S. demands and prevent potential economic fallout from renewed trade barriers.
While the Trump administration has cited fentanyl trafficking as a primary concern, U.S. border patrol statistics indicate that less than one per cent of fentanyl seized enters through the northern border. Nonetheless, Canada has committed to designating drug cartels as terrorist organizations and increasing efforts to combat illicit drug trade and human smuggling.
With the one-month pause on U.S. tariffs ticking down, Ford has made it clear that he expects immediate action from Ottawa to safeguard Canada’s trade interests and avoid economic disruptions.