Trump’s Trade Wars Fuel Nationalism and Political Shifts in Canada and Mexico

President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policies and rhetoric, including tariff threats and even suggestions of annexing Canada, appear to be backfiring, triggering a surge in national pride and shifting political landscapes in both Canada and Mexico. While Trump’s approval ratings in the United States have seen a slight dip, leaders in the neighboring countries are experiencing a wave of popularity as citizens rally against what they perceive as economic bullying.

The article details how Trump’s actions have inadvertently strengthened the hand of political leaders in both countries. In Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum is enjoying record-high approval ratings, reaching 85% according to a recent El Financiero poll. This level of support is unprecedented in recent Mexican history, a clear indication of public approval for her handling of the trade dispute with the United States. Sheinbaum’s approach has been one of measured defiance, emphasizing cooperation and collaboration while firmly rejecting subordination to U.S. interests.

Sheinbaum’s response to Trump’s tariff threats has been carefully calibrated. While acknowledging the potential damage to the Mexican economy, which relies heavily on exports to the U.S., she has also stressed the importance of national sovereignty and the need to diversify trading partners. Her victory lap after Trump delayed the implementation of tariffs, declaring that "dialogue and respect have prevailed," resonated deeply with the Mexican people. Sheinbaum is being viewed as a strong leader capable of standing up to the United States while maintaining a pragmatic approach.

Across the northern border, Canada is witnessing a similar surge in national unity and a shift in political fortunes. The ruling Liberal Party, which had been trailing in national polls for years, has surged ahead of the opposition Conservatives. This dramatic turnaround is largely attributed to the public’s reaction to Trump’s trade policies and his repeated jabs at Canada.

The selection of Mark Carney as the new leader of the Liberal Party and the presumed next prime minister further underscores this shift. Carney, a Harvard graduate and former banker, is viewed as a competent and experienced leader who can effectively negotiate with Trump. In his victory speech, Carney made it clear that Canada would not back down in the face of American pressure, stating that "In trade, as in hockey, Canada will win."

Carney’s assertive stance reflects a growing sense of Canadian nationalism. The article notes a palpable increase in patriotism, with citizens displaying Canadian flags and boycotting American products. This surge in national pride has benefited the Liberal Party, positioning Carney as a leader who can defend Canada’s interests against external threats.

Trump’s proposed tariffs on Mexican goods, potentially devastating to Mexico’s economy due to over 80% of exports destined for the U.S., have solidified the resolve to stand behind their current leader. Despite the potential harm, Mexicans appear ready to rally around Sheinbaum, unified against what’s seen as economic aggression.

The contrast between the rising approval ratings of leaders in Canada and Mexico and Trump’s declining popularity in the United States is striking. While Trump’s approval rating stands at 45%, it represents a slight dip from the previous month and falls well below the average for U.S. presidents in their first term.

The article points out the interesting shift that has been occurring in Canadian society. Colin Robertson, a former Canadian diplomat, highlighted the newfound display of national pride, evidenced by citizens displaying Canadian flags—a rare sight. He also observed that Canadian grocery stores are now identifying product origins, with consumers actively avoiding American goods.

The response from the Canadian political sphere is equally interesting. The Conservative Party, initially inspired by Trump’s populist appeal, attempted to rebrand itself with the slogan "Canada First." However, this strategy appears to have backfired, as the public has rallied behind the Liberal Party, which is seen as more capable of defending Canada’s interests against American pressure.

The ongoing trade dispute has triggered a wave of retaliatory measures. Canada and Mexico are planning to impose their own tariffs on U.S. goods, and American liquor has been removed from the shelves of Canadian retailers. The situation is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of the North American economies and the potential consequences of protectionist trade policies.

The article shows that Trump’s aggressive trade policies have inadvertently strengthened the hand of political leaders in both Canada and Mexico. By creating a sense of external threat, he has fueled nationalism and unity in those countries, while simultaneously undermining his own standing at home. The long-term consequences of this trade war remain to be seen, but it is clear that it has already had a profound impact on the political landscapes of North America.