Ford’s Power Threat Fuels Tensions Amid Looming U.S. Tariffs

TORONTO, Ontario – Newly re-elected Premier Doug Ford doubled down Monday on his threat to cut off electricity flowing from Ontario to several U.S. states if the U.S. proceeds with tariffs. Speaking at his first news conference since elections, Ford stated, “If they want to try to annihilate Ontario, I will do anything — including cutting off their energy — with a smile on my face.”

Ford’s comments arose as tensions between Canada and the U.S. escalate over proposed tariffs that could severely impact key Ontario industries, including auto manufacturing and steel production. He emphasized that he wanted to ensure that U.S. officials understood the potential consequences of their actions. “They need to feel the pain. They want to come at us? We’ve got to go back twice as hard,” he added.

The context for Ford’s remarks follows imminent tariff measures expected to be imposed on Canadian imports by the U.S., which could reach up to 25 percent. These tariffs may lead to increased retail prices and exacerbate inflation within Ontario.

In addition to threatening energy supply cuts, Ford unveiled plans to implement a surcharge on energy exports to the U.S. He indicated that his government might also “rip up” a $100-million deal with Elon Musk‘s Starlink internet company, further asserting his commitment to retaliate.

Furthermore, Ford has directed the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) to remove American products from its shelves if tariffs are imposed, urging consumers and retailers to prioritize Ontario-made products. “So please, please work with us, or we’re going to legislate it,” he warned, emphasizing the need to support local businesses.

Ford’s approach comes as the province navigates the economic implications of a potential trade war, a focal point of his $189-million election campaign. His Progressive Conservative platform included around $40 billion in commitments aimed at mitigating the impact of tariffs, including a new $5-billion Protect Ontario Account.

Despite the significant costs associated with the election campaign, Ford touted his administration’s accomplishments, citing an increased share of votes in three consecutive elections—a feat not seen in Ontario for over 65 years. However, he is facing challenges as industries react to the escalating trade tensions.

Concurrently, companies in the Waterloo region’s tech sector voiced concerns regarding the uncertainty surrounding the impending U.S. tariffs. Joel Semeniuk, chief strategy officer at Communitech, stated that many local tech firms are reassessing their operations amid the looming threat. “Some of these products cross the border a few times before they become finished products,” he explained.

Despite tech products potentially escaping direct tariffs, the overall economic climate pressures companies who could be affected due to their affiliations with U.S. clients, noted Guru Singh, CEO of Scispot. He stressed that uncertainties relating to tariffs create investment hesitancy.

The Technology Councils of North America (TECNA) composed a letter addressed to the Trump administration opposing the proposed tariffs, warning that they could harm jobs and disrupt supply chains across borders. They called for policies that would foster efficient trade rather than adding to the economic strain.

As Ontario gears up for potential trade repercussions, both the provincial government and local businesses are preparing for what could be a turbulent economic period, emphasizing a focus on domestic markets and reducing dependency on U.S. exports.