Manitoba’s premier, Wab Kinew, expressed his full support for Ontario Premier Doug Ford amidst a verbal clash between Ford and U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday. Kinew emphasized unity within Team Canada, stating, “I got Doug Ford’s back, 100 per cent.” This affirmation came after a meeting with Manitoba government’s U.S. trade council in Winnipeg.
Ford’s remarks on a Toronto radio show, where he told Trump to “kiss my ass,” triggered a response from the U.S. president on social media. Trump referred to Ford as “Flunky Ford” and compared him unfavorably to his late brother, Rob Ford. Ford later reiterated his stance during a news conference in Hamilton.
Following the meeting, Kinew mentioned a conversation with Ford and hinted at upcoming developments without divulging specifics. The Manitoba trade council session aimed at strategizing ways to shield Manitoba’s industries and workforce from potential job losses due to changing U.S. trade policies.
The meeting involved diverse stakeholders, including union and Indigenous leaders, steel industry representatives, and others. Kinew described the discussions as “constructive,” focusing on aligning Manitoba’s priorities with the federal government’s forthcoming response to tariffs.
Concerns were raised about the impact of tariffs on businesses and workers, prompting a call for unity and collaborative solutions. Details on provincial and federal responses to the tariffs were not disclosed to the media.
Manitoba Chambers of Commerce president Chuck Davidson highlighted the need to identify affected sectors and businesses, stressing the importance of government supports. The federal government is expected to announce assistance for impacted Canadian businesses and counter-tariff measures soon.
Progressive Conservative Leader Obby Khan urged prompt and transparent action from the provincial government to support affected businesses. Khan emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive support program to aid all impacted businesses swiftly.
Representatives from business and labour sectors met in Winnipeg on Monday to discuss the latest U.S. tariffs and the supports needed to fight them.
