Ontario Premier Doug Ford found himself in the midst of a diplomatic dilemma when an anti-tariff advertisement funded by his government stirred up controversy with U.S. President Donald Trump. Despite the initial tensions, Ford is now taking steps to mend fences and restore harmony following a heated exchange over the ad.
Ford addressed the recent confrontation between American ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra, and Ontario’s representative in Washington, David Paterson, at a gala event in Ottawa. Sources reported that Hoekstra voiced his displeasure with Paterson using strong language, attributing the breakdown in trade talks to the contentious ad.
During a public event, Ford urged Hoekstra to extend a personal apology to Paterson, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation. He acknowledged the ambassador’s frustration but emphasized the need to move past the conflict, highlighting Paterson’s crucial role in trade negotiations with the U.S.
The controversial ad, featuring audio of Ronald Reagan discussing the impact of tariffs, not only drew Trump’s ire but also led to a spike in existing tariffs on Canadian goods. Despite eventually pulling the ad, its broadcast during the World Series generated significant attention and backlash from the U.S. president.
In a parliamentary session, Ford faced criticism from Liberal MPP John Fraser over the repercussions of the ad on Ontario’s economy. However, Ford defended the ad as a catalyst for important discussions among various political figures, advocating for zero tariffs as the ultimate goal.