This browser does not support the Video element.
Trade war escalates between US, Canada
There are a lot of emotions surrounding these tariffs. FOX 2 spoke with several Canadians; however, many did not want to go on camera. But Windsor resident Jessica Pope had much to say about the recent rise in tariff tensions.
DETROIT (FOX 2) - The tariff war between the U.S. and Canada is not only making national headlines, but it is also being felt on both sides of the Detroit River.
Big picture view:
There are a lot of emotions surrounding these tariffs. FOX 2 spoke with several Canadians; however, many did not want to go on camera. But Windsor resident Jessica Pope had much to say about the recent rise in tariff tensions.
"It’s very unfortunate. You know, we’ve always been allies, close with the U.S. being a border city. It’s just terrible to see that he’s bargaining in bad faith, the president. So, just really unfortunate," said Pope.
Canadians in Windsor, Ontario, are keeping a close eye on the trade and tariff war with the U.S. It has been going on since President Donald Trump took office for his second term in 2025.
There has been a lot of back-and-forth since then, with Trump seeking to impose tariffs but facing pushback. Then, last week, negotiations appeared to be on the horizon. But late Friday, Aug. 21, talks failed.
Trump then imposed 50% tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian imports.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says he will match the tariffs "dollar for dollar" in retaliation beginning Sept. 8.
What they're saying:
FOX 2 sat down with Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens for his thoughts on it all. He says this war will have an immediate impact on families.
"I would ask anyone watching this right now, when you get into your Ford F-150, how much are you paying for gas? Take that F-150 to Meijer, to Kroger, to go in and buy hamburger meat, ground beef. How much are you paying for ground beef right now?" said Mayor Dilkens. "You know the pain already that’s being impacted and inflicted on you because of these tariffs and other wars that are in place. Now we’re just adding another unnecessary war, a tariff war between great friends and two large trading partners that is totally unnecessary, that will absolutely increase the cost that you pay at the grocery store and everywhere else you go. And so, how much more pain do you want?"
Dilkens later said this tariff war will have an immediate impact on families, especially those who work in the auto industry.
"Sept. 8, and now Donald Trump has threatened 50% tariffs as of Jan. 1 on a whole host of sectors and industries in Canada, including auto," Dilkens said. "If it gets to Jan. 1 and a 50% tariff is applied by President Trump, anyone who’s working in automotive in the United States, or if you’re in the parts sector in the U.S. and Canada, get ready to be laid off. Just in time for you to pay your Christmas bills, you’re going to be laid off. Guaranteed, it’s going to happen. I’m telling you now, it’s going to happen. There’s going to be lots of pain in both countries and in Mexico as well. And this is all unnecessary."
The other side:
The White House released a statement regarding recent tariff announcements:
"President Trump ascended to the White House on a clear promise to the forgotten men and women of America that they would be forgotten no longer. Countless American workers, farmers, and businesses have borne the brunt of America’s lopsided trade relations, including with Canada which has demanded total access to the American market without reciprocity. President Trump will never stop fighting to put Americans and America First." ~WH Spokesman Kush Desai.
Watch FOX 2 Detroit LIVE
This browser does not support the Video element.
The Source: FOX 2 talked with Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens and used information from the White House in this report.