Trump's 'Trade War' Backfires as Canada Refuses to Back Down
A trade dispute between the US and Canada has escalated into a full-blown 'war', in the words of commentator Froma Harrop. She argues that trying to humiliate the country is not in America's interests, especially as Trump's powers are diminished.
The tariffs imposed by Trump affect only about 5% of Canada's exports to the US, but Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has refused to back down even at a cost to his economy. Harrop notes that this willingness to defend national honor is admirable, but also questions the effectiveness of Trump's strategy.
Trump has been posting on Truth Social about the issue, calling Canada 'a State' without being one and accusing them of charging US farmers massive amounts of tariffs. However, his actions seem to contradict these claims - he has just lowered taxes on foreign beef in an attempt to cut prices for steaks and hamburgers before the midterm elections.
Carney's stance has been supported by Canadians, with over 75% wanting him to hold his ground even as 90% worry about economic costs. Meanwhile, Trump's Republican enablers are facing reduced prospects of retaining power after November, thanks in part to his broadsides becoming increasingly unhinged.