Ontario Premier Doug Ford referred to U.S. president-elect Donald Trump as a “funny guy” during an interview on Fox News, responding to Trump’s quip about Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state. The remark was made amidst escalating tensions over Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports unless measures are taken to curb the flow of illegal drugs and migrants.
Ford joined Fox News host Neil Cavuto to discuss the tariffs and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent visit to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. Trump’s additional plan to impose a 10% tariff on Chinese imports also came under scrutiny during the conversation.
Highlighting the interconnectedness of U.S.-Canada trade, Ford criticized the proposed tariffs, likening them to “a family member stabbing you right in the heart.” Ontario, America’s third-largest trading partner, accounts for $500 billion in two-way trade annually, making the potential tariffs particularly concerning for the province.
“The real focus should be on China and Mexico,” Ford stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong ties between Canada and the U.S. He added, “We’ve always had an incredible relationship between our two countries, and we want to continue that.”
Ford’s comments came after Trump joked that Canada could become a U.S. state if the economic impact of tariffs proved too severe. In response, Ford dismissed the suggestion as humorous, referencing historical tensions with a tongue-in-cheek remark: “I guess he’s still upset that in 1812 we burnt down the White House and he’s holding a grudge after 212 years.”
Canada’s ambassador to the U.S., Kirsten Hillman, struck a similar tone, viewing Trump’s comments as a reflection of his personality. “It’s reassuring that people are comfortable enough to tease each other,” Hillman said, urging Canadians to focus on constructive collaboration with the incoming administration.
Economists warn that Trump’s tariff policies could deliver a significant blow to Canada’s economy, with University of Calgary economist Trevor Tombe estimating a 2.6% GDP reduction and an average loss of $2,000 per Canadian annually. Ford noted that the integrated supply chain between Ontario and the U.S., where parts often cross the border multiple times, underscores the importance of avoiding trade barriers.
As tensions simmer, Ford’s recent ad campaign branding Ontario as “an ally to the North” aims to highlight the province’s value to the U.S. economy. Meanwhile, Trump continues to stoke conversation with his social media posts, including an image of himself alongside a Canadian flag captioned, “Oh Canada!”
