Friday January 24, 2025
Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday January 24, 2025, and The Toronto Star
Doug Ford’s Call for a Mandate is a Diversion, Not a Solution
In the wake of President-elect Donald Trump’s provocative rhetoric about using “economic force” against Canada, Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s call for a new mandate to tackle potential U.S. tariffs seems less about addressing genuine economic challenges and more about diverting attention from his government’s shortcomings.
Opinion: Doug Ford is trying to protect himself, not Ontario, with an early election call
His concept of “Fortress Am-Can” emerges as a notable, albeit gimmicky, initiative by Ontario Premier Doug Ford. This catchy moniker is intended to symbolize a robust economic alliance with the United States, aiming to fortify trade relations while addressing potential external threats. While the name conjures images of impenetrable economic strength, critics might argue that it serves more as a rhetorical flourish than a concrete policy framework, highlighting the complexities and challenges inherent in truly integrating cross-border economic strategies with domestic priorities. It’s has yet to be seen if the moniker goes anywhere.
The proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods by Trump present a significant economic threat, but framing an election as the solution is misleading. At a time when the Canadian economy needs strategic, collaborative responses, Ford’s focus on securing political capital is a distraction from more pressing and actionable solutions.
For one, Canada must urgently diversify its trading relationships. Reliance on the U.S. leaves Canada vulnerable to the whims of American policy shifts. By expanding trade ties with Europe, Asia, and other global markets, Canada can bolster its economic resilience and reduce dependency on a single partner.
Moreover, the real opportunity for economic strengthening lies within our borders. Interprovincial trade barriers in Canada are a self-imposed obstacle that stifles economic potential. These barriers, in the form of differing regulations and standards, create inefficiencies and restrict the free flow of goods, services, and labor. Addressing these would not only enhance domestic productivity but also prepare Canada to better withstand external economic pressures.
News: Split on U.S. tariffs, premiers agree to focus on dismantling interprovincial trade barriers
Meanwhile, Ford’s government faces significant domestic challenges, particularly in healthcare and housing. Ontario’s healthcare system is under strain, with long wait times and resource shortages affecting patient care. The housing crisis continues to escalate, with affordability and availability issues persisting across the province. These are critical areas that demand focused attention and effective policy solutions, yet they seem overshadowed by the political theater of an unnecessary electoral mandate.
In essence, Ford’s election call seems more a maneuver to consolidate power rather than a genuine effort to address the economic challenges posed by U.S. tariffs. What Canada truly needs is strategic leadership that prioritizes internal economic reforms and external diversification. By focusing on these substantive issues, Canadian leaders can enhance national resilience and secure a more stable economic future.
The path forward requires vision and collaboration, not electoral distractions. It’s time to move beyond political posturing and focus on the real work needed to strengthen Canada’s economy from within.