Ontario Premier Doug Ford has expressed his government’s willingness to work with whoever secures the White House in the upcoming 2024 U.S. presidential election, whether it be Donald Trump or Kamala Harris. Ford emphasized the strong economic ties that Ontario has with the United States and its various states, highlighting the impact of the election on the province’s economy. With approximately 81% of Ontario exports going to America, the outcome of the election could have significant ramifications for Ontario.
The Ford government has been proactive in cultivating strong relationships with governors and maintaining ties with the United States, regardless of the election result. Ford cautioned against adopting a protectionist mindset that could jeopardize existing trading relationships and emphasized the importance of fostering new jobs and opportunities through a “Buy Can-Am” approach. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ford advocated for increased vaccine supply from the United States and expressed gratitude when 1.5 million doses were allocated to Canada.
Ford has previously commented on the election campaign, expressing support for Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Kamala Harris’ running mate and acknowledging the challenges faced by U.S. President Joe Biden. In the event of a Trump victory, the president-elect would be the first to have been indicted and convicted of a felony, with the power to halt federal investigations against him. Harris, on the other hand, is seeking to make history as the first woman, first Black woman, and first person of South Asian descent to become president.
The outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential election holds significant implications for Ontario’s economy, given the province’s reliance on trade with the United States. Ford’s government is committed to maintaining strong relationships with U.S. counterparts, advocating for economic cooperation and job creation on both sides of the border. As the election approaches, Ford’s message emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnership, regardless of the political affiliations of the incoming administration.
Ford’s proactive approach to engaging with U.S. leaders and advocating for the interests of Ontario workers reflects the interconnected nature of North American economies. Despite differences in political ideologies and personalities, the premier has stressed the importance of prioritizing economic growth and trade partnerships for the benefit of Ontario. The upcoming election will test the resilience of Canada-U.S. relations and the ability of provincial governments like Ontario to navigate uncertain political landscapes.
