Poilievre Warns Against Using Counter-Tariff Revenues to Justify Government Spending Increases

March 4, 2025 TruthUSA

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre believes that the revenue generated from retaliatory tariffs on the United States should not be used for new spending and programs.

“Counter-tariffs should not be seen as a cash cow for the government. The majority of the tariffs collected should be allocated towards tax cuts, with a small portion reserved for targeted assistance to workers most affected by the trade war,” Poilievre stated in Ottawa on March 4.

On March 4, America imposed 25 percent tariffs on Canadian imports and 10 percent tariffs on energy imports. In response, Ottawa implemented reciprocal tariffs on $155 billion worth of American goods, with $30 billion taking immediate effect and the remaining $125 billion starting in 21 days.

Poilievre criticized the Trump administration for betraying America’s closest ally and warned that U.S. citizens would also face negative repercussions from the tariffs, such as higher gas prices, job losses, and significant stock market declines.

He emphasized that Canadians are slow to anger but will respond when provoked, stating, “We will fight back.”

Poilievre outlined his strategy for Canada’s approach to U.S. tariffs.

He suggested targeting American goods with retaliatory tariffs, focusing on items that Canada can produce or obtain from other countries. However, he stressed that this revenue should not fund new government initiatives to prevent wasteful spending that could lead to inflation and harm the working class.

While Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and provincial leaders previously indicated support for industries impacted by U.S. tariffs, no concrete plans have been put forth.

When questioned about border security measures to prevent the 25 percent tariffs, Poilievre expressed concerns over weaknesses in Canada’s borders that have resulted in significant harm, especially due to the opioid crisis.

Despite the need for further action against fentanyl trafficking, Poilievre emphasized that decisions should be made in the best interest of Canadians, rather than as a response to U.S. demands.

On addressing cross-border drug issues, Poilievre proposed adding 2,000 new Canada Border Service agency guards, acquiring additional surveillance equipment, and imposing severe penalties on fentanyl traffickers.

Regarding President Trump’s criticism of him for not being a “MAGA guy,” Poilievre affirmed his commitment to prioritizing Canadian interests over foreign alliances.

Source link