Canadian Premiers Take Lead on U.S. Trade Crisis as Trudeau Steps Down

Facing Donald Trump's tariff threats and Ottawa's leadership vacuum, provincial leaders are stepping into federal foreign policy roles.

Donald Trump, set to begin his second term as U.S. president, has threatened severe tariffs on Canadian goods and suggested using 'economic force' against Canada.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation earlier this week, leaving provincial premiers to fill a leadership void in managing U.S.-Canada relations.
Premiers have adopted divergent strategies, including Ontario's Doug Ford proposing contradictory plans on electricity exports and Alberta's Danielle Smith focusing on expanding oil exports.
Provinces are deploying additional law enforcement along the U.S. border to address concerns over migration and drug smuggling, despite international issues being under federal jurisdiction.
A group of premiers is planning a trip to Washington in February to meet with U.S. lawmakers and advocate for tariff exemptions, though no meeting with Trump is scheduled.