Trump slams Canada as U.S. House passes symbolic vote to end tariffs

Trump called Canada 'among the worst in the World to deal with' on trade and border security as six Republicans voted with Democrats against his fentanyl-related tariffs.

U.S. President Donald Trump called Canada “among the worst in the World to deal with” as the U.S. House of Representatives voted against his tariffs on America’s northern neighbour — a largely symbolic move that shows some wavering Republican support for the president’s massive trade agenda.

“Canada has taken advantage of the United States on Trade for many years. They are among the worst in the World to deal with, especially as it relates to our Northern Border,” Trump posted on social media Wednesday night as results of the vote became clear. “TARIFFS make a WIN for us, EASY. Republicans must keep it that way!”

Six Republicans joined Democrats in a bipartisan push against Trump’s so-called fentanyl emergency at the U.S.-Canada border, which the president used as justification for economywide tariffs against America’s northern neighbour last year.

While Wednesday’s motion passed, it did not get the two-thirds majority it would need to become veto-proof. When it lands on Trump’s desk, it is expected to be shut down.

Canada is also being hammered by separate sector-specific tariffs on industries like steel, aluminum, automobiles and lumber that Trump enacted through a different presidential power.

The bipartisan support does demonstrate Republican uncertainty around Trump’s erratic trade policies directed towards Canada.

Democrat Rep. Gregory Meeks, who introduced the bill, said Canada isn’t a threat.

“Canada is our friend. Canada is our ally,” Meeks said. “Canadians have fought alongside Americans.”