The Trump administration has imposed a 25-percent tariff on most Canadian imports along with a 10-percent levy on oil and gas. This development comes as U.S. President Donald Trump makes unfounded claims regarding outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's intentions to manipulate these tariffs for political gain. In retaliation, Canada announced it would implement 25-percent tariffs against $106 billion worth of U.S. goods.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is slated to step down as leader of the governing Liberal Party once a successor is chosen on Sunday. Canada faces a federal election deadline by October 20, though the Liberal Party could opt to trigger an election sooner. An early election could also be initiated if opposition parties pass a vote of no confidence in Parliament.
Amidst these political uncertainties, President Trump took to social media, alleging that Trudeau "is using the Tariff problem, which he has largely caused, in order to run again for Prime Minister." Trump further suggested that Trudeau's upcoming resignation and the Liberal leadership race have bolstered the party's standing in the polls, despite recent trade tensions.
Stewart Prest, a political science professor at the University of British Columbia, responded to Trump's remarks as displaying "a reckless disregard for the Canadian democratic system." Prest clarified that "To be clear, Trudeau will step aside after the Liberal leadership race," emphasizing the orderly transition intended by Trudeau.
The U.S. tariffs, impacting $21 billion worth of Canadian goods, came into force on Tuesday. During a news conference on Thursday, Trudeau firmly stated "No" when asked if he would consider remaining as prime minister in a caretaker role during this period of uncertainty. He expressed his commitment to a smooth transition, saying, "I look forward to a transition to my duly elected successor in the coming days or week."
Trump continued his commentary by sharing similar posts on his Truth Social platform on Wednesday, accusing Trudeau of exploiting trade tensions to maintain power. Meanwhile, the opposition Conservatives have been trailing the Liberals by as many as 26 percentage points earlier this year.
