By Mindi Soren
Ontario Premier Doug Ford recently sparked controversy with remarks suggesting he wanted to "inflict pain" on Americans in response to proposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. The comments, made amid escalating trade tensions, have drawn sharp criticism for their tone and implications, especially given the deep economic ties between the United States and Canada. While Ford’s frustration may stem from legitimate concerns over economic impacts, his choice of words was widely seen as inappropriate and counterproductive, risking further strain on an already delicate cross-border relationship.
The backdrop to Ford’s statement is the looming threat of tariffs proposed by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, who took office in January 2025. These tariffs, aimed at protecting American industries, could impose a 25% duty on Canadian exports like energy, steel, and automotive parts—sectors critical to Ontario’s economy. Canada, which sends nearly 75% of its exports to the U.S., stands to lose billions, with Ontario bearing a significant share of the burden. Ford, a vocal advocate for his province’s workers and businesses, has been outspoken about the potential fallout, warning of job losses and economic disruption.
However, his rhetoric took a provocative turn when he reportedly said he wanted to "inflict pain" on Americans as a retaliatory measure. While the exact context of the statement matters—whether it was off-the-cuff or a calculated jab—it landed poorly. Critics argue it reflects a reckless escalation, unbecoming of a leader representing a key U.S. ally. Canada and the U.S. share the world’s longest undefended border and a trade relationship worth over $1 trillion annually. Ford’s comments, rather than fostering dialogue, risk inflaming tensions at a time when cool-headed negotiation is needed most.
The inappropriateness of Ford’s remarks lies not just in their aggression but in their impracticality. Retaliation might feel satisfying, but it’s a double-edged sword. Ontario’s economy is deeply intertwined with American markets—think auto plants in Windsor or energy exports from Sarnia. "Inflicting pain" on the U.S. could boomerang, hurting Canadian workers and consumers as much as their southern neighbours. Economists have long warned that tit-for-tat trade wars leave both sides worse off, a lesson from the 2018 steel and aluminum tariff spat that Ford should recall.
Public reaction has been mixed. Some Ontarians cheered the premier’s defiance, seeing it as a stand against American bullying. But others, including business leaders and opposition politicians, called it reckless. NDP Leader Marit Stiles criticized Ford, saying, “We need a premier who fights smart, not one who picks fights he can’t win.” On X, users debated the merits of his stance, with one post quipping, “Ford’s playing tough guy while forgetting who buys our stuff.” Another defended him, arguing, “He’s just saying what we’re all thinking—enough is enough.”
Ford’s defenders might claim he’s channelling frustration shared by many Canadians tired of being caught in U.S. trade crosshairs. Yet, leadership demands more than venting spleen. Diplomacy, not bravado, has historically preserved the Canada-U.S. partnership through trade disputes. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, while also critical of the tariffs, has struck a more measured tone, emphasizing collaboration over confrontation—a contrast that highlights Ford’s misstep.
In the end, Ford’s comments were inappropriate not because they lacked passion but because they lacked prudence. With billions in trade and millions of livelihoods at stake, Ontario—and Canada—need a strategy that protects interests without burning bridges. Inflicting pain might make for a catchy sound bite, but it’s no substitute for the hard work of negotiation. Ford would do well to remember that in a trade war, the only real winners are the headlines.
Mindi Soren is a freelance journalist and writer for Veritas Expositae
You can reach her at mindi.soren@veritasexpositae.com
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