Canada is ready for its economic Independence Day |
HALIFAX—What on earth has happened to the United States?
Canadians have been long-time admirers of so much of what America represents.
We have looked up to its inspirational presidents like John F. Kennedy, marvelled at its brilliant science that put a man on the moon, and applauded its movie stars, musicians, and writers.
But perhaps the greatest bond between the two countries has been something less tangible, but even more important than cultural sharing: respect. Despite its superpower status, economic predominance, and military might, the U.S. has largely treated Canada like a partner and close friend rather than a vassal.
U.S. President Donald Trump has taken punitive measures against this country that have called the great relationship into question. He has imposed tariffs on Canada that threaten businesses on this side of the border, and raise prices in both countries.
But far worse than his unexpected economic warfare on his country’s best friend and ally was Trump’s musing that he would like to make Canada his 51st state. The towering arrogance and ignorance of a U.S. president saying that out loud was hitherto unthinkable. Shame on Vice-President JD Vance for being Trump’s obedient parrot on that outrageous proposition.
Could anyone imagine presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower, Kennedy, Jimmy Carter, or even Richard Nixon saying that? None of them ever would. Because after uttering those words, diplomacy becomes virtually impossible. How do you negotiate with someone who openly declares that they would like to end your sovereignty?
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