Justin Trudeau warns that Trump’s tariffs could hurt American consumers significantly
Trump’s been hinting at slapping a 25% tariff on all Canadian imports, which could hit U.S. consumers hard. Trudeau made it clear that no one wants to pay 25% more for things like electricity or oil from Canada. He thinks folks need to pay more attention to that rather than the statehood chatter.
Trudeau also mentioned that if Canada merged with the U.S., it wouldn’t magically lower taxes or eliminate tariffs. He called out Trump’s tactics, saying they keep people confused. Plus, he pointed out that Trump has misrepresented the trade relationship, claiming it’s a subsidy when Canada actually provides a lot of resources to the U.S.
If Trump goes ahead with those tariffs, Canada might retaliate with its own on American products like orange juice and steel. Remember, during Trump’s first term, Canada already hit back with tariffs on U.S. goods like bourbon and motorcycles.
Trudeau emphasized that these tariffs would hurt American workers, which is the opposite of what Trump promised to do. Interestingly, Trump claimed the U.S. doesn’t need Canadian oil, but in reality, a significant chunk of U.S. oil comes from Canada.
Trudeau also noted that Canada is a key trade partner for many U.S. states, with billions in goods crossing the border daily. Trump has said he might reconsider his tariff threats if Canada improves border security, but Trudeau pointed out that very few illegal immigrants come from Canada.
After meeting Trump last November, Trudeau even agreed to boost border security spending to address some of Trump’s concerns. With Trudeau’s party struggling in the polls and the looming challenge of Trump’s second term, he announced his resignation last Monday, with plans for a new leader to be chosen soon.
