- U.S. President Donald Trump has a habit of declaring victory on social media based on few discernible facts, or none at all.
- Trump appears to want Canada to accept treaty-violating tariffs and agree to a rewrite of the USMCA that would render his treaty violations treaty-compliant.
- Trump wants the rest of the world to meekly accept his tariffs and not retaliate, but Canada has retaliated.
- If Trump can turn a trade war most Americans have never heard of into a claim of trade victory, it might subtract from the list of reasons to vote against his party in November.
- Trump's trade policy has become a dysfunctional version of Deal or No Deal.
- The only specific Trump mentioned in his social media post celebrating a trade deal was the alleged possible revival of 'the great Keystone XL Pipeline.'
Mark Carney recently spoke with Donald Trump as the U.S. President attempts to claim a trade victory with Canada, despite the ongoing tariff tensions. Trump declared on social media that a deal was imminent, stating, 'Canada and the U.S.A., subject to the finalization of documents, have a DEAL!'
However, Carney took a more cautious approach, noting that while 'substantial progress has been made,' significant work remains. The complexities of the negotiations are underscored by Trump's insistence that Canada accept treaty-violating tariffs and agree to a revision of the USMCA that would legitimize his previous violations.2
Trump's trade strategy has been likened to a dysfunctional game of Deal or No Deal, where he seeks to portray a victory in a trade war that many Americans are unaware of. His administration's approach has led to retaliatory measures from Canada, which has not backed down in the face of tariffs.5
As the deadline approaches, the outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the political landscape ahead of the upcoming elections, potentially influencing voter sentiment against Trump's party.
Trump has also hinted at the revival of the Keystone XL Pipeline as part of the negotiations, further complicating the trade dialogue.
The situation remains fluid, with both leaders navigating a challenging path toward a resolution.
“Trump's trade policy has become a dysfunctional version of 'Deal or No Deal,' as he pushes for Canada to accept treaty-violating tariffs. If he can frame a little-known trade war as a victory, it could influence voter sentiment against his party in November.”
The Globe and Mail
