How a Reagan-era ad derailed the Canada–U.S. trade talks

A high‑stakes White House meeting in October 2025 left Canada and the U.S. on the verge of an interim pact covering steel, aluminum, uranium, energy, and autos, but 16 days later talks collapsed. President Trump cited Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s $75 million Reagan‑era ad as the trigger, though officials say broader auto‑industry frustrations and Ottawa’s moves against Stellantis and GM were the real breakpoints. Canada’s retaliatory tariffs and import restrictions further poisoned negotiations, and while talks restarted in March, negotiators have not recaptured the 'magic moment' of October. With a July 1 deadline looming to renew USMCA or press toward a bigger deal, industry leaders are urging a focus on removing tariffs and returning to substantive talks.