Ontario Halts Controversial Anti-Tariff Advert Following Trump’s Reaction

Mon Nov 10 2025 23:11:30 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Premier Doug Ford announces pause on anti-tariff ad campaign aimed at U.S. audiences as trade talks with the U.S. resume, following President Trump's termination of negotiations.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has decided to pause his province's anti-tariff advertisement campaign in the U.S. after it elicited a strong reaction from President Donald Trump, who terminated ongoing trade talks. The ad featured a quote from former President Ronald Reagan, emphasizing the negative impact of tariffs on Americans. Ford stated that the advert would still run over the weekend before the pause takes effect to allow for resumption of trade discussions, highlighting the complexities of Canadian-American trade relations amidst ongoing tariffs imposed by the U.S.

Ontario Halts Controversial Anti-Tariff Advert Following Trump’s Reaction

Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced on Friday that he will pause the province's anti-tariff advertising campaign in the United States after it prompted President Donald Trump to terminate trade negotiations. Ford's decision came after consultations with Prime Minister Mark Carney, with the aim of facilitating the resumption of trade talks.

The ad, which highlights former President Ronald Reagan's remarks on tariffs, sparked significant backlash, culminating in Trump's criticism and declaration of halted discussions in a post on his platform, Truth Social. Ford emphasized that the advert will continue to air over the weekend but will be paused on Monday.

Trump branded the advert as 'FAKE' and 'egregious,' stating that it misrepresented Reagan's views. Following this, the Ronald Reagan Foundation condemned the use of the former president's image and audio without permission, further complicating the situation.

Ford clarified that the purpose of the advert was to provoke discussion regarding economic policies and the consequences of tariffs. We've achieved our goal, having reached US audiences at the highest levels, he noted.

Trade relations have been tense, with the U.S. imposing a staggering 35% tariff on some Canadian goods, forcing Canada to reevaluate its stance amidst these economic challenges. Prime Minister Carney has expressed willingness to resume talks with the U.S. when they are ready, amidst ongoing frustrations over what he describes as 'unfair trade barriers.'

As both leaders prepare for the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Canada's approach to these negotiations is critically being assessed, with many Canadian analysts suggesting that balancing assertiveness with diplomacy is essential as they navigate this 'rocky road' towards a favorable trade relationship.