Part 5/8:
The ongoing tensions stemming from Smith’s objections could fracture the collective negotiating strength of Canada in facing the tariff threat. Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, reiterated the need for a united front, emphasizing that nothing should be off the table when dealing with an aggressive U.S. policy. The message from leaders like Ford and Holt is that protecting Canadian interests should take precedence over regional preferences, particularly with the risk of a divided response inviting more scrutiny and potential retaliatory measures from the U.S.