Canadian Prime Minister candidate Chrystia Freeland has announced a strategic counterattack in response to Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, vowing to implement targeted retaliatory measures that will directly pressure the White House.
One of her most striking proposals? A 100% tariff on Teslas—a move designed to hit Elon Musk, Trump’s close ally and influential backer, right in his wallet.
Freeland Takes a Stand Against “The Dumbest Trade War in History”
Freeland, currently running to lead Canada’s Liberal Party and become the next Prime Minister, did not mince words when speaking with MSNBC’s Jen Psaki about the economic fallout of Trump’s tariffs.
“If the tariffs are imposed, as Prime Minister I will fight back with dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs, and our retaliation is going to be surgically targeted to create the maximum pressure on the White House,” she declared.
She pointed out that the U.S. stock market is already in free fall, exactly as reputable economists predicted, and stressed that Canada has the leverage to fight back.
“An example of a measure that I will put in place as Prime Minister is 100% tariffs on Teslas. I think that should get some attention in the White House,” she stated.
Going After Elon Musk—Trump’s Billionaire Ally
The Tesla tariff strategy is a tactical move aimed at Elon Musk, one of Trump’s most powerful corporate allies. Musk, who has wielded enormous influence over Trump, would undoubtedly push for a reversal if his business empire takes a direct hit.
Freeland made it clear that Canada is not a passive player in this economic standoff.
“Americans might not think about Canada much, but when you do, you should remember this: The U.S. sells more to Canada than to China, Japan, the U.K., and France combined. So yes, we do have leverage,” she asserted.
Cutting Off Starlink—A Further Blow to Musk’s Empire
Psaki pressed Freeland on whether she would go beyond Tesla and also cancel government contracts with Musk’s Starlink satellite service.
“Absolutely,” Freeland confirmed. “And Canadian premiers have already said that they would do that.”
Canada’s Message to Trump: “If You Hit Us, We Will Hit Back”
Freeland emphasized that she does not want a trade war, but Canada will not stand by while Trump’s reckless policies damage its economy.
“The irony of this, the stupidity of this, is that right now we have a balanced and mutually beneficial relationship,” she said. “There is a win-win here. There is an exit ramp. But Americans need to know that if you hit Canada, we will hit back—and we will make sure our retaliation hurts.”
With Trump’s trade war already causing chaos in the markets, Freeland’s aggressive and targeted response could be the key to forcing the White House to rethink its strategy—before the U.S. economy spirals even further into crisis.
