OTTAWA — Moments before the new Liberal leader was announced on Sunday, former prime minister Jean Chretien took to the stage to reprimand U.S. President Donald Trump over tariffs and threats to Canada’s sovereignty. Chretien warned a crowd of Liberals gathered in Ottawa about the deteriorated Canada-U.S. relationship, emphasizing the hostility stemming from the Trump administration.
The former prime minister applauded Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government along with Canada’s premiers for their leadership during what he described as difficult times, standing resolutely against Trump’s threats. He articulated significant discontent with U.S. policies, stating, “From one old guy to another old guy, stop this nonsense. Canada will never join the United States.” Chretien’s remarks sought to embody the sentiments shared by many Canadians concerned about national sovereignty.
Chretien proposed retaliatory measures such as imposing export taxes on pivotal resources like oil and gas, potash, steel, aluminum, and electricity—suggesting these actions would strike Americans “where it really hurts.” He firmly declared, “These unjustified duties will be a lose-lose situation for both Canadians and Americans, but for Canada, this is about more than money.” The potential revenue from such tariffs, he indicated, could be channeled back to developing Canadian infrastructure.
Throughout his address, Chretien urged Canadians to embrace their independence and unity, emphasizing the importance of standing tall amid threats and tensions. Trump’s past comments about tariffs, which echoed his vision of making Canada the 51st state, were denounced as provocations aimed at weakening the close ties between the two nations.
“I thank Trump for uniting Canadians as never before,” Chretien humorously noted during his speech, jokingly inferring he deserved the Order of Canada for his inadvertent role in rallying the nation. His remarks were greeted with loud applause, as they struck chords with not just party members but with all Canadians concerned about their country's identity and relations with the U.S.
Continuing to highlight the historical bond, Chretien stated, “Historically, we have faced problems, but we always found ways to solve them.” He reminded attendees of the collaborative work done with the U.S. over the years, assuring them, “I’m confident the next prime minister will work with the premiers, the leaders of all the political parties in the House of Commons, and allies around the world to meet the challenges created by Mr. Trump.”
His statement captured the resolve among Canadian leaders, reflecting not only their respect for their neighbor but also steadfast commitment to maintaining sovereignty. With Trump threatening broader ‘reciprocal’ tariffs to commence on April 2, 2025, Chretien’s foresight was clear: Canadians needed to tighten their collective belts and brace for what could be turbulent economic waters.
Overall, Chretien’s speech was both defiant and optimistic, encapsulating the spirit of resistance within the Liberal ranks and urging all Canadians to stand united. “We are going to be living very difficult times, but I’m confident, I’m very confident…” he concluded, instilling hope for resilience and cooperation among Canada's leadership and its citizens.