How Trump has Changed Canada

Welcome to day 28 of the Ultimate Blog Challenge.  I had another post prepared, but as the question to the participants was on how the current President of the United States has affected us, I knew this was the right post for today.

When Donald Trump returned to the political spotlight with his 2024 presidential campaign, and then won his second term as President, many Canadians felt a familiar mix of disbelief and great concern.. His first term had already strained U.S.-Canada relations through trade disputes, public insults, and unpredictable policies. But this time, things have been so much worse, as the insults fly, our Prime Minister is referred to as a Governor,  the trade war began, and the rhetoric of taking over our sovereign country is constant. This time, Canadians are angry. Rather than bracing for impact, we are stepping confidently into our own space, put our elbows up, and have united as one country to fight this battle together.  Instead of breaking us apart, it has brought us together.

1. Trade Wars and Wake-Up Calls

The Trump administration’s decision to impose steel and aluminum tariffs, and countless of other equally senseless tariffs, on Canada blindsided both political leaders and business owners. For a country so deeply intertwined with American markets, it was a rude awakening. Farmers, manufacturers, and exporters suddenly had to navigate a new world of unpredictability. In one foul swoop, the Trump White House undid a North American Free Trade Agreement (one which Trump came up with) sending the markets into free-fall.

Canadians may be polite, but we are tough, and we are not push-overs. Canada, as a united country, went elbows-up (a hockey term that signifies we're ready to defend ourselves, and our values). 

Rather than waiting to be punished again, we are doubling down on global trade diversification. Canada has signed and strengthened agreements globally, including the European Union (CETA), Pacific nations (CPTPP), and individual countries throughout Asia and Latin America. Most recently new agreements are being forged between Canada and Mexico. These new trade routes have become essential lifelines, proving that we don't need to rely so heavily on a volatile American administration.

Impact:

• A push to expand Canadian trade far beyond U.S. borders.

• Increased interest in other world markets like Japan, Germany, South Korea, and India.

• A more globally aware and competitive business mindset.

2. From “Nasty” Neighbour to National Pride

Trump’s habit of publicly mocking allies didn’t spare Canada. He has labeled us “nasty,” joked (not taken as a joke inside the Canadian borders) about us being the “51st state,” and has treated trade negotiations like a wrestling match. But Canadians—typically modest and diplomatic—are pushing back.

Suddenly, flags were flying higher. “Made in Canada” was more than a label - it became a quiet act of resistance and a symbol of pride. People have boycotted buying American products, and most Canadians openly refused to cross the border for vacations or shopping trips.

Impact:

• A noticeable drop in Canadian tourism to the U.S. for non-essential travel.

• Boycotts of U.S.-made products in favour of Canadian alternatives, or products from elsewhere in the world.

• Renewed support for Canadian industries and small businesses.

3. Stepping Out of the Shadow

Canada has long wrestled with defining itself on the world stage. Living next to a cultural and economic giant like the United States, it’s been easy for outsiders - and sometimes even Canadians - to blur the lines between us. For decades, we’ve struggled to carve out a truly unique identity.

But Trump’s presidency has given us a new reason to reflect. In the face of insults, unfair trade tactics, and a disregard for diplomacy, we were forced to ask: Who are we, really? It's a question that we will continue to grapple with as we continue to evolve as a country that is severing more and more ties with the United States.

And the answer to the question of our identity (which previously would have included "we're not American") is coming not through loud nationalism, but through quiet confidence. We are cooperative but not passive. Peaceful but not weak. Diverse, resilient, and unapologetically kind. Moreover, we are a proud nation who will fight for our country.

Impact:

• A growing awareness and pride in Canadian values and identity.

• Stronger commitment to multiculturalism, inclusion, and diplomacy.

• Canada showing the world that leadership can be steady, respectful, and effective.

4. Canadians Travelling to America

The personal tone of U.S. politics has bled into the experience of everyday Canadians. Reports of harsher treatment at U.S. border crossings, unpredictable customs interactions, and even social tension between Canadians and Americans have caused many to reassess how welcome we really are.

Combined with the political rhetoric and trade hostility, this created a psychological shift: for many Canadians, the U.S. was no longer seen as the default partner or the automatic destination for goods, services, or travel.

Impact:

• Increased interest in domestic tourism and “staycations.”

• A stronger movement to support Canadian goods and services.

• More scrutiny over cross-border deals and cultural exchange.

5. Coming Together at Home

Ironically, Trump’s divisive approach did something rare, it has brought Canadians together. Across provinces, political lines have blurred as people agreed that Canada needs to stand up for itself. Even when Ottawa and the provinces disagree on other issues, there is widespread support for presenting a united front in negotiations and media messaging.

This surge of unity has given us something lasting: a stronger sense of who we are and what we stand for.

Impact:

• Stronger Canadian identity rooted in respect, cooperation, and inclusion.

• Increased public engagement in political issues, especially foreign policy.

• National pride expressed not with loud slogans, but steady resolve.

Donald Trump’s presidency may have been designed to shake the foundations of international alliances, but for Canada, it has done something unexpected. It has reminded us of who we are. It sparked a wave of unity, resilience, and pride that has pushed us to grow beyond dependence and assert a clearer, stronger voice on the world stage. Canada is no longer content to be the quiet neighbour in the north. We are building new partnerships, embracing our distinct identity, and standing together with more confidence than ever before. And while the noise from the south continues, Canadians are showing that dignity, strength, and cooperation still have a place in leadership.