Ford backs tariff-for-tariff response to Trump, calls for more federal support

Ontario Premier Doug Ford says he fully supports Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision to walk away from a proposed trade deal with the United States, arguing the agreement would have hurt Canadian workers and undermined Canada’s sovereignty.

As tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump escalate, Ford said Ontario will stand behind workers and businesses affected by the trade dispute.

“No matter what President Trump sends our way, we’ll have your backs,” Ford said. “We will be there for you to protect your jobs and paychecks and stand up for Canada.”

Ford also endorsed a stronger response to additional U.S. tariffs, saying Carney has his “full support to hit back, tariff for tariff.”

The premier acknowledged that a trade conflict could cause economic challenges for Ontario but said his government would work to keep costs down, cut taxes and protect jobs. He urged all levels of government to work together to support workers and families.

Ford called on Ottawa to take immediate action to strengthen Ontario’s auto, steel and manufacturing sectors. His proposals include removing federal greenhouse gas emissions standards for Canadian-made vehicles, exempting tariff-affected industries from federal emissions performance standards and reducing tariff-free steel import quotas.

He also urged the federal government to increase financial support for affected industries, redirect counter-tariff revenues to impacted workers and businesses, and introduce tax cuts to improve Canada’s competitiveness and attract investment.

“If President Trump escalates, Canada needs to be ready to do the same. Everything needs to be on the table,” Ford said.

He also criticized Trump’s tariffs as “nothing more than a tax on the American people,” saying they are raising the cost of housing, food and other necessities in the United States.

“Canada did not start this fight, but we’re prepared to win it,” Ford said. “Team Canada needs to stand united, stand up to this attack on our economy, use our leverage to protect our workers, and make clear to President Trump that Canada is not for sale.”