Demonstrators gather outside the US consulate in Vancouver, British Columbia, to protest against potential economic threats. – Image by Ethan Cairns/The Canadian Press/AP
As tensions rise over US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats towards Canada, Canadian citizens are taking action. In response to the looming economic challenges, Graham Palmateer, owner of Gram’s Pizza in Toronto, has announced a shift in his inventory. He is replacing American products with Canadian alternatives, such as Italian tomatoes over Californian ones, meats from Ontario and Quebec instead of Ohio, and sparkling water sweetened with Canadian maple syrup instead of Coca Cola.
The mounting hostility towards the US and its leader has sparked a wave of patriotism and unity among Canadians. People have canceled trips to the US, protested during sports events, and even boycotted American products. This boycott represents a significant shift in a country known for its politeness and diplomacy.
The recent imposition of tariffs by Trump has further strained Canada-US relations, leading to retaliatory actions from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Despite the challenges ahead, Canadians are standing firm in defense of their country’s interests.
The tariff issue is being used as a means to maintain power. Recently, the US president granted temporary exemptions from tariffs to automakers and goods covered by the North American free trade agreement. However, the prolonged back-and-forth with Trump on tariffs has severely strained relationships for many.
British Columbia Premier David Eby expressed that the relations with the US have been irreparably altered. Canadians, who have strong ties with their American counterparts, are now reluctant to rely on the United States as much. Trump’s threats against Canada and his disrespectful remarks towards Prime Minister Trudeau have deeply offended Canadians.
The tension has left Canadians feeling upset and disillusioned. Some have even vowed never to cross the border into the US again. In response to Trump’s actions, Canadians have taken steps to reduce their dependence on American products, opting for alternatives like Mexican or Canadian goods. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, for example, has directed the removal of US products from liquor stores and imposed tariffs on electricity exports to certain US states.
This isn’t the first time Canadians have clashed with Trump over tariffs. Several years ago, Trump imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports during negotiations for a free trade agreement. Canadian businesses have since rallied together to support local products and counter the impact of US tariffs.
The surge in support for Canadian businesses has been remarkable, with many Canadians actively seeking out local alternatives to US products. Despite challenges, such as finding new suppliers and adjusting operations, the shift away from American goods has been relatively smooth for some businesses.
Overwhelming support has emerged from his community. “It has been some time since Canadians have been so united on an issue,” remarked Palmateer. “This seems to be something that nearly everyone agrees on.”
As Canadian sentiments towards the US and its leadership have declined, their perception of their own country has notably improved, according to David Coletto, CEO of Canadian polling and research firm Abacus Data. In a recent survey, the proportion of Canadians who believe the country is on the right track has reached a two-year peak, rising to 30% from just 19% when Trudeau stepped down in January, Coletto revealed.
Patriotism, which has traditionally been more subdued in Canada compared to the US, is on the upswing. The Canadian flag, previously associated with the right-wing “Freedom Convoy” protests against Covid-19 measures in 2022, has now been rebranded as a symbol of national pride and resistance to Trump. Sales of flags by Canadian flagmaker Flags Unlimited have doubled compared to a year ago, the company’s owner informed a CNN affiliate.
The escalating tariffs have fueled a surge in support for the Liberals. Trump’s targeting of Canada was described by Coletto as “a shock to the Canadian psyche that completely shifted people’s perspectives,” to the extent that it may impact the upcoming federal election. The next Liberal leader and prime minister after Trudeau will be chosen next week, with contenders including former finance minister Chrystia Freeland and former central bank governor Mark Carney.
While the next general election is mandated to be held before October under Canadian law, it is likely to be called sooner. Recent polls indicate a resurgence in support for the Liberals following a period of decline, with the Conservative Party’s longstanding lead possibly narrowing. Coletto emphasized that tensions with the US have influenced what Canadians are seeking in their next leader.
The shift in focus for the Conservatives’ leader Poilievre from internal Canadian issues to a “Canada first” stance has distanced him from Trump’s policies. Lobo, owner of Made in Canada, reported receiving numerous emails from Canadians across the political spectrum expressing frustration over Trump’s decisions, as well as support from Americans and Europeans.
Celebrities, including Canadian actor Mike Myers, have also joined in the movement. Myers, portraying Elon Musk on “Saturday Night Live,” wore a t-shirt with the slogan “Canada is not for sale.” As the show wrapped up, he gestured “Elbows up,” an ice hockey term signaling readiness for action.
Reporting contributions by CNN’s Kevin Liptak, Jeff Zeleny, Alayna Treene, and Kit Maher. For more CNN news and newsletters, sign up at CNN.com.
