Ford government MPP blames U.S. tariffs for job losses in his riding

As job losses mount, critics say the Ford government ran its election campaign under the slogan 'Protect Ontario,' promising to shield the province from the effect of tariffs.

The Ford government is facing accusations it has abandoned its promise to “protect Ontario” from U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs after a major yarn maker shuttered its retail storefront and manufacturing facility in a southwestern Ontario community.

Spinrite — which makes yarn and sewing thread — recently announced the closure of its Listowel, Ont., facility, shedding more than 140 jobs in the community of fewer than 10,000 people.

The decision was so impactful on the small town of North Perth that the local municipality issued a statement calling it “shocking” and promising to help the families of workers at the plant.

The  Ford government also acknowledged the closure at Queen’s Park before the legislature rose for its summer break, blaming the job losses on tariffs from Trump.

“I want to share with this House that Spinrite in Listowel, unfortunately, is closing its manufacturing production,” government whip Matthew Rae, who represents the area, said on June 4.

“That was announced yesterday—140 jobs gone from rural Ontario. And the number one reason is the U.S. Trump tariffs, period. That is the reason.”

Government critics, however, pointed out that the Progressive Conservatives ran their most recent election campaign under the promise they would “protect Ontario” from the impacts of tariffs.

“Ford promised to protect Ontario jobs,” Ontario NDP MPP Catherine Fife said in a statement. “Press releases and empty words won’t stabilize these tariff-vulnerable sectors during this storm. Ontario urgently needs a new industrial strategy that strengthens local manufacturing, making sure workers aren’t left behind. People need action, not excuses.”