As a verbal clash unfolded between Doug Ford and U.S. President Donald Trump, Manitoba’s premier, Wab Kinew, expressed solidarity with the Ontario premier. “I fully support Doug Ford. We stand together as Team Canada,” Kinew stated following a meeting with Manitoba’s U.S. trade council.
Ford’s remarks on a Toronto radio show, where he told Trump to “kiss my ass,” triggered a response from the U.S. president on social media, labeling Ford as “Flunky Ford” and a less charismatic version of his late brother, Rob Ford. Ford reiterated his stance at a news conference in Hamilton, refusing to heed advice from someone known for multiple bankruptcies.
Kinew, upon leaving the Winnipeg meeting, indicated he had just spoken with Ford. When pressed for details, he cryptically responded, “You’ll soon find out.”
Describing the meeting as “constructive,” Kinew highlighted its focus on safeguarding Manitoba’s industries and workforce from potential job losses amid changing U.S. trade policies. The discussion centered on aligning Manitoba’s priorities with the federal government’s forthcoming response to tariffs.
Attendees at the meeting comprised diverse stakeholders, including union and Indigenous leaders, representatives from the steel industry, and others. Kinew emphasized the shared concerns and constructive dialogue aimed at navigating the challenges ahead.
No specific details regarding provincial or federal responses to the recently imposed tariffs were disclosed to the media. Chuck Davidson, president of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, noted a growing understanding of the potential impacts on the province’s populace and preparations being made by the government.
Davidson stressed the need to identify affected sectors and provide necessary support promptly, aligning with anticipated federal measures to aid impacted Canadian businesses and counter the tariffs. Progressive Conservative Leader Obby Khan urged swift and transparent action from the province to support affected businesses effectively.
The meeting underscored the urgency and collaborative efforts required to address the economic repercussions of the escalating trade tensions, emphasizing the importance of timely and targeted support for Manitoba’s businesses.