Alberta Premier Applauds Ontario’s Urgent End to Tariff Ads

UPDATE: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has praised Ontario for its swift decision to terminate a controversial tariff ad campaign that previously prompted U.S. President Donald Trump to halt all trade discussions with Canada. This development comes as officials push for renewed dialogue between the two nations.

Earlier today, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced the cancellation of the campaign, which featured footage of former U.S. President Ronald Reagan asserting that tariffs harm economies. Trump criticized the ads as a misrepresentation of Reagan’s views, escalating tensions between the provinces and the U.S.

Smith emphasized that Ford’s decision to end the ads is a crucial step toward resuming productive trade negotiations. “Diplomacy and working in good faith are essential for securing a deal,” she stated. Canada and the U.S. must concentrate on shared objectives, particularly in the energy sector, she added.

However, not everyone agrees with this approach. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew contends that Ontario should not back down, arguing that Trump’s reaction demonstrates the campaign’s effectiveness. “The ads are resonating,” Kinew insisted, highlighting the need for Canada to stand firm in its trade assertions.

This announcement marks a significant shift in the landscape of Canadian-U.S. trade relations. As the two countries navigate these complex dialogues, the focus now shifts to how quickly negotiations can resume and what strategies will be employed moving forward.

The implications of this decision are vast, touching not just on economic interests but also on the diplomatic relationships that bind the two nations. With both provinces now advocating for cooperation, the urgency for constructive dialogue has never been greater.

As events unfold, all eyes will be on the upcoming meetings between Canadian and U.S. officials to see how quickly they can re-establish trade discussions. The outcome of these negotiations could have lasting effects on the economies of both countries.

This report is based on information from The Canadian Press and was first published on October 24, 2025.