New Democrats urge firm Canadian position after missing US trade deal deadline

Canada’s NDP Leader Don Davies issued the following statement:

“Canadians have been watching the US trade talks unfold with a chaotic and unpredictable Donald Trump. As the Liberals miss the August 1 deadline, Trump’s tariffs continue to cost Canadians jobs and damage our economy.

New Democrats have been clear.

We want Canada to win. We want a fair outcome that protects workers, communities, and industries. We support taking a strong position and urge our government to hold firm for a good deal.

It’s crystal clear that PM Carney's one-sided concessions have been unsuccessful in reaching these goals.

Mr. Carney gave in on key issues, including scrapping the digital services tax on multi-billionaire tech giants, committing to NATO’s excessive 5 per cent target, and violating Canadians’ privacy rights by signing up to Trump’s ominous ICE security state with Bill C-2. But none of this worked. Instead, Trump has slapped Canada with a 35 per cent tariff and continued his attack on our country and workers.

Mr. Carney knew his strategy was failing. He hinted at a missed deadline days ago - and now it’s happened.

Canada must keep pushing for a strong deal. New Democrats urge the Liberal government to act now to protect workers and the economy by:

• Investing in domestic manufacturing and union jobs;
• Prioritizing Canadian content in public projects and offering Made-in-Canada tax incentives;
• Launching Canada Victory Bonds to mobilize investment at home;
• Reforming Employment Insurance, especially for workers hurt by Trump’s reckless tariffs;
• Halting cuts to public services Canadians rely on; and
• Accelerating trade diversification with Europe and Asia.

In uncertain times, Canadians take care of each other. This is a moment of challenge and opportunity.

New Democrats believe it is vital for Canada to stand strong, develop our own economy, protect our sovereignty and stand up to Trump’s bullying with courage and resolve.”