Trade tensions with Canada not on the minds of Republicans at convention

Dallas — The trade tensions between Canada and the United States have not been a top concern for Republican delegates attending the "Trump-a-Palooza" convention in Dallas this week. Brian Becker admitted his lack of knowledge about the current state of the Canada-United States relationship. The convention, which serves both as a fundraiser and to build momentum for Republicans ahead of the November midterm elections, is taking place at a time when President Donald Trump has low approval ratings.

Delegates expressed enthusiasm about seeing Trump, who is the keynote speaker, and discussed their worries about election integrity and affordability. However, many indicated they are not worried about the relationship with Canada, despite polls suggesting that Trump's tariffs and renaming of Lake Ontario are widely unpopular. Ken Moore referred to the trade war as an "interfamily spat" and believed the two countries would resolve their differences. This report by The Canadian Press was originally published on September 9, 2026.