Snow plows and salt trucks worked to clear Toronto’s streets, which were buried under two feet of snow. Among those assisting was Doug Ford, the premier of Ontario, who helped dig out a car trapped at an intersection during the January 2022 snowstorm, even offering rides home to some drivers.
While some residents viewed Ford's actions as a public relations stunt, the incident highlighted his image as an approachable leader who, despite lacking the polish of other politicians, is committed to getting the job done.
Currently, Ford is also addressing a different challenge: President Trump’s threats to Canada’s economy and his aspirations to make Canada the 51st state. Ford has emerged as a vocal defender of Canadian sovereignty, earning the nickname “Captain Canada” during a time when many Canadians feel betrayed by the U.S.
After Trump threatened tariffs on Canada, Ford expressed his dismay, stating, “It’s like a family member stabbing you right in the heart.” He has adopted a public persona that includes wearing a “Canada Is Not For Sale” baseball cap and a “Never 51” hockey jersey, both in response to Trump’s comments.
Ford has taken measures such as removing American alcohol from Ontario liquor store shelves and canceling a government contract with Starlink, a company owned by Elon Musk. He briefly imposed a 25 percent surcharge on electricity supplied to Michigan, Minnesota, and New York, which garnered attention from Trump.
Trump acknowledged Ford’s strong stance, stating, “There’s a very strong man in Canada,” although Ford later retreated on the surcharge after discussions with Trump administration officials. Ford joined a delegation of Canadian officials in Washington to address the ongoing trade dispute.
Despite these efforts, Trump is expected to impose additional tariffs on Canada, which has already retaliated against previous tariffs with levies on $20.5 billion worth of U.S. goods. Analysts warn that these tariffs could lead Canada into a recession, with some Canadian companies already announcing layoffs.
Ford has publicly attributed potential economic downturns to Trump, stating, “If we go into a recession, it’s self-made by one person.” Ontario has invested in advertising campaigns aimed at American audiences to emphasize the economic ties between the two nations and the negative impact of tariffs.
The trade conflict has sparked a renewed sense of Canadian pride, with some citizens expressing a desire to protect their national identity. Arlene Dickinson, a Canadian investor, praised Ford for his unwavering commitment to national interests.
The trade war coincides with a transitional period in Canadian politics, as Mark Carney has recently taken over as prime minister from Justin Trudeau. Ford’s early call for a provincial election allowed him to maintain visibility and popularity amid these changes.
Before becoming premier in 2018, Ford served on the Toronto City Council and was known for his support from “Ford Nation,” a group of voters who had previously backed his late brother, Rob Ford, a former mayor of Toronto.
Ford’s prominent role in the trade dispute has somewhat overshadowed local controversies, including plans to convert waterfront parkland into a spa and investigations into real estate deals by his government. Despite facing criticism over various issues, Ford remains a sought-after voice on Canada’s international challenges, asserting, “We’ll never be a 51st state. Canada is not for sale.”