As U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to impose 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports, the leaders of Ontario’s four major political parties have vowed to stand up for Ontarians, protect jobs, and push back against economic uncertainty.
Trump announced Sunday that he will introduce the tariffs on Monday, along with reciprocal import tariffs on Tuesday or Wednesday that would mirror other countries’ tariff rates on U.S. imports. Canada, Mexico, and China are expected to be among the hardest hit.
The move comes after Trump temporarily paused tariffs on Canadian goods following a $1.3 billion border security agreement with Canada, which included the appointment of a “fentanyl czar” to address cross-border drug trafficking.
Progressive Conservative Leader Doug Ford criticized Trump’s unpredictability and urged Ontarians to elect a strong majority government to ensure stability during Trump’s administration.
“This is the next four years. Shifting goalposts and constant chaos, putting our economy at risk,” Ford posted on X.
“I’m asking the people for a strong, stable, four-year mandate that outlasts the Trump administration to do whatever it takes to always be ready to protect Ontario.”
Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie took aim at both Trump and Ford, reminding Ontarians that Ford had previously expressed support for Trump’s re-election.
“Unlike Doug Ford, I didn’t want Donald Trump to win the White House back because I knew it would be bad for Ontario. We need to stand together as Team Canada against Trump,” she stated.
“But the people of Ontario also need a premier who will fight to get the basics right for them. That’s my plan – a family doctor for everyone, an end to endless waits in emergency rooms, and a focus on making life more affordable.”
NDP Leader Marit Stiles pledged to stand with workers and protect every single job impacted by Trump’s tariffs.
“Ontario’s workers are not going to take this lying down, they will fight back, and I will be right there with them,” Stiles declared.
Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner expressed concern about the impact of Trump’s trade policies on Ontario jobs and emphasized the need for cross-party cooperation.
“Trump’s import tariffs could have a big impact on Ontario jobs, and we need to be working together across party lines to ensure we’re ready for them,” Schreiner said.
However, he also criticized Ford for calling a snap election, accusing the premier of prioritizing politics over economic stability.
“Instead, Doug Ford has forced us into a snap election that’s all about himself. Life is so unaffordable right now, it’s no wonder people are worried,” Schreiner added.
“Seven years of Doug Ford’s failures have driven up the cost of homes, food, and everyday essentials. Greens are fighting to repair the damage and build a fairer Ontario.”
With the Ontario election set for February 27, 2025, Trump’s new trade policies could become a key issue for voters, particularly in manufacturing-heavy regions that depend on exports to the U.S.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has yet to respond to Trump’s latest tariff threats, leaving Canadians wondering how the federal government will navigate the latest Canada-U.S. trade tensions.