An attempt by a Canadian province to use Ronald Reagan ‘s words against US tariffs has backfired dramatically. President Donald Trump responded by terminating all trade negotiations with Canada.
The ad, from Ontario, featured a clip of Reagan saying tariffs “hurt every American worker.” Trump immediately attacked the ad on social, calling it “fraudulent” and an act of “egregious behavior.”
This decision freezes the trade relationship, which sees c$3.6 billion in goods cross the border daily. The dispute is over US tariffs (now 35%) on Canadian goods, which have hit Ontario’s economy particularly hard.
Adding to Ontario’s woes, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation condemned the ad. The foundation stated the “selective audio” misrepresents Reagan’s 1987 speech and that it is “reviewing its legal options.”
Canadian prime minister Mark Carney expressed disappointment and said he would continue to negotiate. However, Trump’s move, confirmed by secretary of state Marco Rubio, suggests talks are off the table for the foreseeable future.
Canada’s use of reagan speech backfires, Trump ends talks
