During a recent exchange of words between Doug Ford and U.S. President Donald Trump, Manitoba’s premier expressed his full support for the Ontario premier. Wab Kinew stated his allegiance to Doug Ford, emphasizing unity as “Team Canada” following a meeting with the Manitoba government’s U.S. trade council.
On a Toronto radio show, Ford bluntly told Trump to “kiss my ass,” prompting a response from the U.S. president on social media, where he referred to Ford as “Flunky Ford” and compared him unfavorably to his late brother, Rob Ford.
Ford reiterated his stance during a news conference in Hamilton, dismissing Trump’s advice, citing the U.S. president’s history of bankruptcies.
After the meeting in Winnipeg, Kinew revealed that he had a conversation with Ford over the phone, teasing that details of their discussion would be revealed in the near future.
Describing the meeting with the Manitoba trade council as “constructive,” Kinew highlighted the importance of safeguarding Manitoba’s industries and workers from potential job losses amid evolving U.S. trade policies.
The meeting, attended by stakeholders from various sectors including union representatives, Indigenous leaders, and steel industry delegates, focused on aligning Manitoba’s priorities with the forthcoming federal response to tariffs, as per a news release.
Addressing concerns raised by businesses and worker representatives, Kinew emphasized unity and constructive discussions on navigating the challenges ahead.
No specific details regarding the provincial or federal government’s strategies in response to the recent tariffs were disclosed to the media.
Chuck Davidson, President of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, highlighted the need to assess the impact of tariffs on the province and determine the necessary support for affected businesses.
Davidson stressed the importance of aligning provincial efforts with the federal government’s forthcoming support measures and counter-tariff plans.
Progressive Conservative Leader Obby Khan emphasized the urgency for a swift and effective provincial response to support affected businesses in Manitoba.
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.
