Braid: Will a Leader Confront the Deceptive President Threatening Canada?

“I wouldn’t mind at all,” replied Donald Trump when questioned by Time magazine about whether he wishes to be remembered for enlarging the American empire.

The U.S. president subsequently released another barrage of falsehoods regarding Canada. Everything he stated was incorrect, as former premier Jason Kenney swiftly highlighted in an excellent fact-check thread on X.

Whether you like it or not, the main concern in this election campaign is Trump’s wish to absorb Canada.

Pierre Poilievre, a conservative leader, suggests that the threat is real yet overstated by the Liberals. In contrast, Mark Carney contends that this issue represents the biggest challenge of our time.

Their responses to Trump have boosted the campaign and will determine the outcome.

Who is most capable of dealing with this deceitful, greedy president? That is the main issue on the ballot.

The more significant worry for Canadians is whether Trump genuinely intends to follow through with his statements and could take action to turn them into reality.

Trump is deadly serious about taking over our vast country. This isn’t just some campaign issue that will magically fade away after the votes are counted.

Initially, he stated his intention to attain supremacy via "economic power." This approach is already being implemented through tariffs imposed on steel, aluminum, and automobiles, with additional measures expected in the future.

His tariffs have significantly undermined Ontario’s economy. In Alberta, the situation is similar. halt in the Dow Path2Zero chemical initiative Outside of Edmonton -- marking the largest capital project in provincial history -- stems from uncertainties surrounding tariffs.

And he hasn't started yet. The harm is beginning to take hold despite the present exemption from overall tariffs.

Trump is at economic war with half the world, but he seeks to own Canada. Big difference.

During an interview with Time held just a few days back, he stated "I'm genuinely not trying to provoke anyone" when questioned regarding his numerous remarks about annexing Canada.

The only way I see this working out is if Canada turns into a state.

To the degree that Trump understands anything about history, he comprehends the age-old concept of Manifest Destiny, which posits that America possesses both the sacred right and responsibility to rule over North America.

It probably seems quite enticing for a president lounging at Mar-a-Lago, holding a map but lacking good judgment. The nation, which appears expansive and prosperous, is equally intimidating and incredibly complex.

What should be done about Quebec, for example? Trump has never spoken the word aloud. Detail-oriented policies are not his strong suit. Similar to every delusional despot, he believes he can alter reality by merely issuing an edict.

Trump serves as the quintessential example of an American who tends to overlook the reality of other nations and doubts the genuine patriotism of their inhabitants.

Isn't everybody eager for U.S. citizenship? We aren't, but numerous Americans struggle to accept this reality. It offends them when they learn the truth.

In the lengthy conversation with Time The query regarding U.S. expansion was deferred until last.

This single point underscores the lack of consideration Americans, even journalists, extend to other nations, including those they were once closely allied with.

Trump stated, "We provide between $200 billion and $250 billion annually to support Canada. We handle all facets of their existence."

Hence, Canada needs to be considered a state.

Kenney, who is presently a member of Postmedia’s board of directors, stated in his reply: "Absolutely none of this is accurate."

Where does he come up with these bogus reports?

Canada gets $0 in subsidies from the U.S.

If his claimed 'subsidy' of '$200 billion' refers to the U.S. trade deficit with Canada, then according to data from the US Census Bureau for 2024, the real deficit stands at $45 billion USD, which is merely a fourth of his assertion.

Kenney additionally noted that when excluding Canada’s low-priced oil and gas exports, the U.S. enjoys a $45 billion trade surplus with Canada.

Regardless of this, Trump claims that Canada would crumble without American generosity.

Navigating this aspect will be the focus over the coming four years. Cast your ballot for the candidate and political party you think can handle it most effectively.

Donald Braid’s article features frequently in the Herald.

X and Bluesky: @DonBraid

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