Premiers expected to discuss Trump’s looming tariff threat during Toronto meeting

All 13 of Canada’s premiers are set to convene in Toronto today for a crucial meeting to address pressing issues facing their provinces and territories. The agenda includes discussions on health care, energy security, and Canada-U.S. relations, particularly in light of Donald Trump’s recent threat to impose a hefty 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian goods.

The Council of the Federation meeting comes at a critical time as the premiers grapple with the potential devastating impact of Trump’s tariff threat on the Canadian economy. While there is a collective sense of alarm among the premiers, they have put forth various proposals on how to tackle the issue.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who chairs the council, has taken a bold stance by suggesting the possibility of withholding energy exports to the U.S. in response to Trump’s tariff threat. Ford emphasized that Ontario supplies electricity to power 1.5 million homes in states such as Michigan, Minnesota, and New York.

Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s energy minister, reiterated Ford’s message of the need for a strong and united front in response to the American threat. Lecce emphasized the importance of demonstrating strength and unity to garner respect from the incoming U.S. administration.

On the other hand, Alberta, led by Premier Danielle Smith, has opted for a diplomatic approach, rejecting any support for tariffs on oil and gas exports to the U.S. Instead, Alberta is actively engaging in securing its border and highlighting the significance of its energy resources in ensuring North American energy security and affordability.

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey emphasized the importance of presenting a united front during the meeting to avoid creating chaos that could be exploited by the U.S. Furey stressed the need for diplomatic channels to prevail and prevent a potential trade war.

The premiers are also looking to Ottawa for action in addressing Trump’s concerns about border security and defense spending. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently met with the premiers to discuss a plan to address these issues, with the goal of implementing a strategy to allay Trump’s concerns.

The federal government is considering significant investments in border security, potentially exceeding $1 billion, to address Trump’s demands. Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc has indicated that part of the border plan will be unveiled in the fall economic statement, offering fiscal projections for the year ahead.

Lecce highlighted the importance of addressing defense spending and border security concerns to avert the imposition of tariffs. He emphasized Canada’s commitment to meeting its defense spending targets, which could help in reaching a favorable agreement with the Trump administration.

The premiers will conclude their meeting with a news conference later today, where they are expected to provide further details on their collective response to Trump’s tariff threat.