Commentary
There are various arguments for U.S. tariffs on Canada. One argument is as a sanction on
Canada’s alleged lax border security that admits deadly fentanyl and illegal immigrants into the United States. However, this argument is now outdated, as only about
1 percent of illegal immigrants and fentanyl come from Canada, and Ottawa has improved
cooperation with Washington on these issues. Another argument is that the U.S. needs domestic supply of strategic goods like steel and aluminum in case of emergency. However, this argument is more applicable to China, not Canada.
Canada poses no real strategic threat to the United States, unlike China. Another argument is that the U.S. can produce cars and lumber domestically, so importing these from Canada is unnecessary. This economic nationalist argument could have significant repercussions on Canada’s economy, given its close ties to the U.S. economy.
Offering Canada membership as the 51st state is an option, but so far, neither of the main political parties in Canada are interested in joining the U.S. under the pressure of tariffs. Most Canadians are outraged and are showing their displeasure through actions like removing American products from their shelves and reducing travel bookings to the U.S. by about
20 percent since Feb. 1.
This “join or get tariffed” dynamic could give larger economies power over smaller ones to force them into annexation. This approach could lead to a world where many countries are politically united, reducing the diversity of the international system. This could open opportunities for countries like Russia and China to expand their influence.
Throughout history, the U.S. has supported smaller states against aggressors, standing up for the underdog. This principle has been a cornerstone of American values and has shaped our international power. It’s important to protect Canada’s freedom by prioritizing free trade with them, as they are an ally and a democracy.
Forcing Canada into a union through tariffs goes against America’s history and values. It’s crucial to respect the sovereignty of other nations and maintain relationships based on mutual respect and cooperation.
Americans support Canada’s freedom to choose both free markets and sovereignty, demonstrating true friendship. The views expressed in this article are the author’s opinions and may not align with those of The Epoch Times.
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