Canadians Accept Fate as Trump's Tariffs Bite

When Donald Trump's administration announced plans to impose 50-per-cent tariffs on Canadian goods worth nearly $28-billion, many expected a strong reaction from Canadians. However, as reported by Chris Tanouye/Reuters in The Globe and Mail, Canadians' initial shock and outrage had given way to resignation.

A poll conducted by Ipsos Canada found that Canadians were already feeling defeated and less prepared for the future than they did during the pandemic. This 'endurance economy' mindset, as described by Mike Colledge, executive insights and sustainability lead at Ipsos Canada, is characterized by people setting their jaw, lowering expectations, and trying to stay afloat.

As the August tariff deadline loomed closer, it seemed that Canadians had accepted their fate and were waiting for things to get worse. The Canadian government's response was described as a 'harm-reduction strategy,' with the goal of mitigating the damage caused by Trump's tariffs rather than trying to stop them.

The U.S.-Canada relationship has become increasingly toxic, with many Canadians feeling that they are being taken advantage of and disrespected. The Canadian government's decision to pursue a harm-reduction strategy may be seen as a sign of their acceptance of this reality.