Wab Kinew Criticizes President Trump as Canada Negotiates Trade Deal to Avert High Tariffs
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has criticized President Trump as a "bad person" and "not to be trusted" during ongoing trade negotiations between Canada and the United States. While the administration announced a potential deal to avert 50 percent tariffs on various Canadian goods, Kinew urged Canada to maintain its leverage rather than rushing to make concessions. To secure the agreement, Prime Minister Mark Carney is pressing provincial leaders to restore the sale of American alcohol on liquor store shelves. Kinew indicated that while Manitoba will follow Carney's lead, he advised Canadians to continue purchasing domestic products. The administration described the emerging deal as "very fair," with reports suggesting a reduction in tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and automobiles. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc noted that the two sides are "very close" to a final agreement. Despite the mixed reactions from other provincial leaders, Kinew remains bullish on Canada's position, arguing that the United States is currently seeking a deal from Canada.