Alberta’s Smith says Canadians ‘confused’ by Trump’s targeting of Lake Ontario

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith appeared on Fox Business Network to address the ongoing U.S.-Canada trade war, explaining that Canadians are "confused" and "disappointed" by President Donald Trump's decision to rename Lake Ontario as Lake America. The premier emphasized the historical and ongoing relationship between the two nations, highlighting the presence of Canadian troops alongside Americans in Afghanistan and the significance of the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Smith questioned why the U.S. would want Canada to be weaker, stating that she believes "we’re stronger together." The U.S. had imposed 50% tariffs on billions of dollars worth of Canadian exports following the breakdown of trade talks, with retaliatory tariffs set to begin on September 8. Smith warned that the trade war would negatively impact small businesses and result in job losses on both sides of the border.

She reiterated her call for a resolution of the dispute, expressing hope that the two governments could pick up where they left off in negotiations. Smith was not alone in appealing to American audiences; Ontario Premier Doug Ford also addressed the situation on CNN, acknowledging personal exchanges with Trump but emphasizing the desire for a fair deal for both nations.

Trump criticized Canada's behavior and accused the country of ripping off the United States, emphasizing that Canada wants to be treated like a state when it is not one.