Substituting Californian tomatoes with Italian ones. Ohio-made pepperoni with meats produced in Ontario and Quebec. Replacing Coca Cola with sparkling water sweetened with Canadian maple syrup. In late January, amid escalating threats from US President Donald Trump to impose tariffs and potentially harm Canada’s economy, Graham Palmateer, owner of a pizzeria in Toronto, made a decision to change the products in his establishment. He informed his patrons that he would no longer stock items from the United States or American companies. “At a certain point, I decided that was it, I’m going to make this change,” Palmateer of Gram’s Pizza told CNN. In a departure from the typically polite demeanor of Canadians, a sense of anger has been brewing in the country. Trump’s threats of tariffs and labeling Canada as the 51st state have stirred up animosity towards the US and its leader. Canadians have started boycotting US goods, with some opting to cancel trips to the US and even booing the American national anthem at sports events. A recent ice hockey game between the two nations turned into a political statement as players engaged in physical altercations. Others, like Palmateer, have joined the movement to boycott US products, a challenging endeavor in a country with strong economic ties to the US. Trump’s actions have united Canadians in an unusual display of patriotism, shifting the political landscape in an election year and benefiting the ruling Liberal Party while prompting adjustments in the opposition Conservative Party. The trade tensions have spurred a surge in Canadian pride and have disrupted the country’s political dynamics. Despite Canada’s reputation for diplomacy and peaceful relations, citizens are ready to defend their country in the face of the escalating trade conflict. Following Trump’s implementation of hefty tariffs on Canadian goods, Trudeau retaliated with reciprocal tariffs on American products. Trudeau emphasized that while Canadians are known for being polite, they will not shy away from a fight when their country’s well-being is on the line. Trump, during a phone call with Trudeau, criticized Canada’s efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking, an issue that has a minimal impact on the US from Canada. Trump insinuated that Trudeau was using the tariff dispute for political gain. As tensions continue to rise, both countries are navigating the repercussions of the escalating trade war.
The relationship between the United States and Canada has been significantly harmed by the recent back-and-forth on tariffs, leading to a shift in sentiment towards American goods. Some Canadians feel that their longstanding ties with the US have been irreparably damaged, prompting a reevaluation of their dependence on American products.
British Columbia Premier David Eby expressed that the relationship has been altered permanently, with a sentiment shared by many Canadians who have deep connections with their American counterparts. President Trump’s threats and disrespectful remarks towards Canada have not been well received, causing anger and frustration among Canadians.
In response to Trump’s actions, Canadians are showing support for domestic products and seeking alternatives to US goods. Some have opted to cancel subscriptions with American companies and are actively choosing Canadian or other non-US options when making purchases. Government officials have also taken action, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford implementing tariffs on US exports and directing the removal of American products from liquor retailors.
The pushback against Trump’s tariffs is not new for Canadians, who have previously faced similar challenges during his first term. Initiatives to support Canadian businesses and reduce reliance on US imports have gained momentum, with a surge in submissions for new businesses and increased traffic on websites promoting local products.
Overall, Canadians are demonstrating a united front in favor of domestic goods and are actively seeking alternatives to US products in response to the current trade tensions.
According to David Coletto, CEO of Canadian polling and research firm Abacus Data, Canadians’ view of their own country has improved as their opinion of the US and its leader has declined. In a recent survey, the percentage of Canadians who believe the country is moving in the right direction has reached a two-year high of 30%, up from 19% when Trudeau stepped down in January.
Patriotism in Canada, historically less overt than in the US, is growing. The Canadian flag, once associated with right-wing protests against Covid-19 measures, has now been embraced as a symbol of national pride and resistance to Trump. Sales of Canadian flags from Flags Unlimited have doubled compared to a year ago.
The recent surge in support for the Liberals can be attributed in part to the impact of US tariffs on Canada, which has reshaped Canadians’ priorities in selecting their next leader. The upcoming federal election will see a new Liberal leader and prime minister chosen next week, with candidates such as Chrystia Freeland and Mark Carney in the running.
The tensions with the US have influenced the qualities Canadians are seeking in their next leader, with many now prioritizing someone who can effectively manage the aftermath of Trump’s decisions on the country. This shift has led to a resurgence in support for the Liberals, potentially narrowing the Conservatives’ long-held lead in recent polls.
In response to Trump’s policies, Canadians from various political backgrounds, as well as individuals from other countries, have expressed solidarity and support for Canada. Celebrities like Mike Myers have also joined in, with a recent portrayal on “Saturday Night Live” featuring a message of Canadian resilience and independence.
As the country prepares for the next federal election, the impact of recent international events and relationships on Canadian politics remains a key factor to consider.
