politics
Ontario premier tones down rhetoric ahead of CUSMA review
The premier completed the first of three U.S. trips this month to present an economic plan to policy-makers and industry groups. Officials have scheduled a formal review of the continental trade agreement for July 1.
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Ontario's premier completed the first of three planned U.S. trips this month to present the province's economic plan to policy-makers and industry leaders. The premier said the reception during the visit was positive and expressed support for the American people.
Earlier tensions The premier previously threatened a 25 per cent surcharge on electricity exports to three U.S. states in March 2025 after tariffs were imposed on Canadian goods. The premier later withdrew the threat after an offer of a meeting in Washington.
An anti-tariff advertisement aired during last fall's World Series featured the voice of former president Ronald Reagan and drew criticism from U.S. officials.
Upcoming review CUSMA comes up for formal review on July 1.
Provincial and federal officials are expected to coordinate positions ahead of the talks. A strategist who previously worked in the premier's office said meetings with industry groups could help shape outcomes even if the premier is not at the negotiating table. Opposition parties have criticized the premier for not meeting directly with U.S. administration officials during the recent trip.
