Former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien has raised concerns about the impact of President Donald Trump on democracy, citing a lack of regard for the rule of law. Chrétien emphasized the importance of the rule of law in Western society, highlighting its significance in maintaining order and stability. He expressed uncertainty about the future outcomes in light of Trump’s actions, noting that while Trump’s tenure is temporary, the repercussions may be long-lasting.
When questioned about the role of world leaders in addressing Trump’s behavior, Chrétien stressed the need for Canada to uphold its values while acknowledging the complexities of balancing national interests with global concerns. Despite the challenges posed by Trump’s administration, Chrétien remained optimistic, drawing parallels to past adversities faced by Canada and emphasizing the country’s resilience.
Chrétien criticized Trump’s remarks towards Canada, particularly instances where Trump referred to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau incorrectly and made suggestions about incorporating Canada as a U.S. state. During a speech at the 2025 Liberal leadership convention, Chrétien affirmed Canada’s independence and unity, asserting that the nation would not merge with the United States. He urged Trump to cease his contentious actions and humorously suggested that Trump be awarded the Order of Canada for inadvertently uniting Canadians.
In a recent interview, Chrétien addressed the ongoing trade disputes instigated by Trump, noting their role in fostering national unity while acknowledging provincial disagreements over handling the tariffs imposed by the U.S. and China. He highlighted British Columbia’s concerns regarding the softwood lumber industry and the need for federal attention to address the challenges faced by the province. Chrétien acknowledged the historical tendency of different levels of government to shift blame, urging for collaborative solutions to navigate the current trade challenges.
Furthermore, tensions have escalated between Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Ontario following China’s proposal to lift tariffs on Canadian canola in exchange for the removal of Canadian tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Ontario Premier Doug Ford emphasized the importance of safeguarding his province’s interests, rejecting the notion of dropping tariffs on Chinese-made EVs. Despite differing perspectives among provinces, there is a consensus on the necessity of securing favorable trade agreements for Canada’s economic interests.
Overall, the discussions surrounding Trump’s impact on democracy, trade disputes, and provincial disagreements underscore the complexities of navigating international relations and upholding national interests in the face of external pressures.