Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced on Friday that the province would suspend its controversial U.S. television advertising campaign criticizing American tariffs. The decision follows discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who is currently in Asia attending summits and expected to meet with President Donald Trump. The suspension aims to foster a more constructive atmosphere for renewed trade negotiations between Canada and the United States

The campaign featured archival footage of former President Ronald Reagan warning against tariffs, which aired during the World Series. President Trump labeled the ad “crooked” and “possibly AI-generated,” leading to heightened tensions between the two nations. The Reagan Library criticized the use of Reagan’s image without permission, accusing Ontario of taking him out of context

Despite announcing the suspension, Ford confirmed that the ads would continue airing through the weekend to capture major viewership during the first two World Series games. He emphasized that the campaign succeeded in sparking debate over the economic impact of tariffs

Reactions across Canada were mixed. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith welcomed the decision, advocating for diplomacy over public confrontation. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, however, argued that Trump’s anger proved the ads were effective and urged Ford to keep the ads on TV. Prime Minister Carney expressed readiness to resume “detailed, constructive negotiations” on sectors like steel, aluminum, and energy once the U.S. returned to the table