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TORONTO · November 2025 — Ontario Premier Doug Ford is standing firm amid growing controversy surrounding an anti-tariff advertisement that has drawn criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump and members of his administration.
Speaking to reporters at Queen’s Park on Monday, Ford dismissed suggestions that he should retract or apologize for the province’s recent campaign, which highlighted the impact of American trade tariffs on Canadian workers and industries.
“I’ll tell you right now — I’ll never apologize to Donald Trump or anyone else for standing up for Canadian jobs,” Ford said firmly. “We’re fighting for Ontario workers, for our auto sector, and for our steel and aluminum industries that have been unfairly targeted.”
The advertisement in question aired across major U.S. networks and digital platforms last week, showcasing Ontario’s manufacturing strength and warning of the economic consequences of continued tariffs on Canadian goods. The campaign quickly caught the attention of Trump, who reportedly called the ad “insulting” and accused Canada of “playing politics with trade.”
Ford’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between Ottawa and Washington, following renewed speculation that the U.S. may impose additional tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and agricultural exports.
“If defending Ontario means upsetting someone south of the border, so be it,” Ford added. “We’re not going to roll over when our workers are being treated unfairly.”
Political analysts say Ford’s comments could further inflame an already sensitive trade relationship between Canada and the U.S., particularly as both countries navigate a fragile post-pandemic economic recovery.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, while avoiding direct criticism of Ford’s comments, said that Canada remains committed to diplomacy and “constructive engagement” with the United States.
“Our approach has always been to defend Canadian interests while maintaining productive dialogue,” Carney said. “But no one should ever question our resolve to protect Canadian workers.”
The Ontario government confirmed that the anti-tariff campaign was fully funded by the province’s Ministry of Economic Development and that it will continue running through the end of November.
Meanwhile, several U.S. state officials — including governors of Michigan and New York — have called for cooler heads, noting the importance of maintaining strong cross-border trade ties.
Ford, however, doubled down on his message, reiterating that “Canada will never be intimidated into silence.”
“We’re proud of our workers, our industries, and our country,” he said. “If that offends someone in Washington, that’s their problem — not ours.”
By Canada Today Staff
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