Post by : Rameen Ariff

Toronto: Following discussions with Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has decided to pause the controversial Ontario ad that critiques U.S. tariffs, effective Monday. This decision comes on the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump's sudden termination of trade negotiations with Canada, where he cited the Ontario ad as a significant point of contention.

The advertising campaign, featuring audio and video of former President Ronald Reagan denouncing tariffs, sought to shed light on the ramifications of U.S. trade policies for American workers and businesses. Ford remarked that the Ontario ad successfully engaged high-level U.S. audiences, asserting, “Our goal was to ignite a discussion about the economy Americans envision and the impact of tariffs on businesses and labor.”

Even with this pause, the Ontario ad will still be broadcasted over the weekend, including during the World Series' opening games, with Ford stating, “We want to keep our message visible to Americans this weekend to ensure the pro-trade dialogue remains strong.”

Trump criticized the advertisement, labeling it as “fraudulent” and accusing Canada of misleading the American public. The White House further remarked that the ad illustrated Canadian officials’ focus on political theatrics rather than productive negotiations.

The Ontario ad campaign, which had a budget of around C$75 million, became a contentious topic in the ongoing trade friction between Canada and the U.S., impacting industries including aluminum, steel, automotive, and lumber. Canadian officials, including Carney, have re-confirmed their eagerness to further discussions aimed at tariff reduction despite Trump's assertive trade policies.

Responses from political figures in Canada varied. Some, like Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, endorsed Ford’s pro-trade stance, whereas analysts noted that the campaign may have worsened diplomatic ties. Ford defended the ad, calling it a factual representation of Reagan's anti-tariff remarks and emphasizing its aim to promote fair trade.

Halting the Ontario ad suggests a temporary easing of U.S.-Canada trade frictions, fostering hopes for the resumption of formal negotiations shortly.

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