Democratic Senator Tim Kaine from Virginia has criticized President Donald Trump’s reaction to an anti-tariff advertisement from the Ontario government as “childish behavior” that reflects poorly on the United States. Kaine expressed his views during an interview on the show “Rosemary Barton Live.” The advertisement, which featured audio clips of former President Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs, has escalated tensions in trade discussions between Canada and the U.S.
President Trump responded to the advertisement by threatening to increase tariffs on Canada by 10%, citing concerns over the authenticity of the ad and Reagan’s stance on tariffs. Trump’s strong reaction led to the termination of trade talks with Canada. Kaine believes that such actions are detrimental to the American economy and hopes for a return to negotiations.
The Ontario premier, Doug Ford, announced the withdrawal of the advertisement from U.S. screens following Trump’s threats. Kaine emphasized the importance of economic realities in bringing both sides back to the negotiating table. Additionally, Kaine, along with other senators, introduced legislation to end the national emergency used by Trump to impose tariffs on various countries, including Canada and Mexico.
As the legal battle over the tariffs continues, with the Supreme Court set to hear arguments, Kaine remains optimistic about garnering bipartisan support. Despite Trump’s aggressive stance, Kaine believes that economic pressures will eventually push the president back to the negotiating table with Canada.
Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticized Ford for his role in the advertisement, calling it interference in U.S. sovereign matters and damaging to relations with Ontario. Prime Minister Mark Carney, currently engaged in trade discussions in Southeast Asia, reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to negotiating with the U.S. for the benefit of Canadian workers and families. Carney aims to expand Canadian exports beyond the U.S. market in the coming years.