Canada launches ad campaign on U.S. tariffs impact

Canada has started a new ad campaign in the United States to oppose President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods. The campaign includes digital billboards that say, “Tariffs are a tax on hardworking Americans.” These billboards will be placed in Washington, D.C., and cities like Miami, Philadelphia, Detroit, and Atlanta, which are heavily reliant on trade with Canada. Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly spoke about the campaign on CNN, stating that the ads aim to inform Americans about the negative effects of tariffs on their lives and finances. She urged Americans to talk to their government representatives about their concerns regarding these tariffs. Polls indicate that many Americans are not in favor of the tariffs. A recent survey found that over half of respondents believe tariffs will hurt the U.S. economy and that 72% are worried about rising grocery prices. Another poll showed that many people think Trump's economic decisions have been inconsistent. Economists estimate that the tariffs could cost American households over $1,200 annually. Although Trump has exempted some goods from tariffs, the White House claims these tariffs will eventually lower prices for consumers. In addition to the U.S. ads, Canada is launching a campaign to encourage Canadians to support local products and express their national pride. This comes as Canada continues to press the Trump administration to remove the tariffs linked to issues such as fentanyl and border security. As tensions rise, Trump has suggested Canada could become the 51st U.S. state. Joly dismissed these comments as "absurd," stating they only harm the American people. Canada is preparing for potential retaliatory tariffs by April 2, the date Trump plans to impose further tariffs globally.