In an unprecedented diplomatic push, all 13 of Canada’s premiers are in Washington D.C. to urge the United States to rethink President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs.
For the first time in history, these subnational leaders secured a meeting at the White House with “senior advisers” to Trump.
Although the premiers will not see Trump himself, they hope face time with his top officials can prevent threatened 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum.
Federal Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, who held separate talks with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and economic adviser Kevin Hassett, believes diplomacy is working.
“[Lutnick] indicated that this would be a good week to continue our conversation around border security in the fight against fentanyl,” said LeBlanc, who added that Canada is not looking to introduce pre-emptive tariffs.
“We don’t think tariffs are the way to proceed.”
Quebec Premier Francois Legault agrees that retaliation should only happen if American tariffs take effect, but warns Ottawa must be ready.
“We have to prepare ourselves,” said Legault, pointing out that an “enhanced list” of possible countermeasures is already in the works.
“They really need us,” said Legault regarding Canada’s aluminum exports to the U.S.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith struck a calmer tone, praising the “30-day reprieve” gained by focusing on cross-border fentanyl issues.
“What I’ve seen from this president is that he is prepared to make a deal,” said Smith, expressing optimism that reasoned arguments about Canada’s strategic resources will influence Trump.
Ontario’s Doug Ford called for a zero-tariff outcome.
“We’re their largest trading partner,” said Ford.
“We have to make sure that we communicate how important it is to be stronger together.”
Canada’s ambassador to the U.S. Kirsten Hillman added that having all premiers in DC demonstrates “the full breadth” of the economic partnership both countries share.
