Premiers meet Trump official at the White House as they lobby against tariffs
A delegation of Canada’s premiers has traveled to Washington D.C. to meet with senior White House officials in an effort to push back against President Donald Trump’s threats of imposing tariffs on Canadian goods. Despite the weather causing some premiers to leave early, the remaining representatives are determined to present a united front against the proposed tariffs.
The premiers are set to meet with Jim Blair, Trump’s deputy chief of staff for legislative affairs, in hopes of gaining insight into the administration’s intentions with the proposed tariffs. British Columbia Premier David Eby expressed that the meeting will likely be a listening exercise to better understand the U.S.’s objectives and how Canada can collaborate effectively.
New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt echoed Eby’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the strong economic partnership between Canada and the U.S. and expressing optimism about the potential for a strengthened relationship.
The premiers refrained from confirming specific details about the meeting, only indicating that they would be meeting with Trump administration officials. Trump recently signed executive orders imposing 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada, in addition to threatening further tariffs on Canadian goods.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith highlighted Canada’s efforts to combat the opioid crisis and crack down on the import of fentanyl, a key issue for the Trump administration. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew emphasized the desire for a resolution that avoids tariffs, underscoring the importance of the longstanding friendship between Canada and the U.S.
Meanwhile, Federal Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc met with top U.S. trade officials, stressing the need to prevent punitive impacts on the Canadian economy. LeBlanc emphasized the solidarity and unity displayed across Canada in responding to the tariff threats.
Despite Trump’s shifting rationales for the tariffs, including concerns about fentanyl entering the U.S. from Canada, Ottawa has demonstrated a willingness to engage with the administration on the issue. The federal government has allocated funds for enhanced border security and appointed a fentanyl czar to address the illicit drug trade.
LeBlanc highlighted the importance of maintaining border integrity and the common fight against fentanyl in discussions with U.S. officials. He underscored the shared economic interests between Canada and the U.S., emphasizing the potential repercussions of steel and aluminum tariffs on both sides of the border.
Overall, the premiers and federal officials are working diligently to navigate the complexities of the trade dispute and protect Canada’s economic interests while fostering a constructive dialogue with the U.S. administration.
