Democratic Senator Tim Kaine criticized President Donald Trump’s reaction to an anti-tariff ad by the Ontario government as “a temper tantrum,” stating that it is embarrassing for the United States. The ad, which featured audio clips of former President Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs, has escalated tensions in trade discussions between Canada and the U.S.
Trump expressed his anger on social media, vowing to raise tariffs on Canada by 10%. He claimed the ad was fraudulent and demanded its immediate removal. Despite this, the ad continued airing during the World Series, further fueling the dispute.
Kaine, in an interview conducted before Trump’s tariff threat, labeled the president’s actions as self-inflicted damage to the American economy and emphasized the need to resume negotiations. He predicted that Trump’s anger would subside but highlighted the embarrassment caused by the president’s reaction to a mere advertisement.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced the withdrawal of the ad from U.S. screens following the weekend, acknowledging the escalating tensions. Kaine emphasized that economic realities would ultimately bring both parties back to the negotiation table.
Senator Kaine has been leading efforts to end U.S. tariffs by introducing bipartisan legislation to repeal the national emergency invoked by Trump for imposing tariffs. He expressed confidence in gaining support from Republican senators for the legislation.
The ongoing court case, where Trump seeks to overturn a ruling on his tariffs, could have significant implications. If the Supreme Court rules against Trump, the imposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico could be nullified.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticized Ford’s actions, describing them as interference in U.S. sovereign matters and damaging to U.S.-Canada relations. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Carney is focused on strengthening Canada’s trade partnerships in Southeast Asia.
Carney reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to negotiating with the U.S. to benefit Canadian workers and families. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a constructive dialogue with the United States and expanding Canada’s export markets beyond the U.S.