Toronto’s streets were blanketed with two feet of snow, as snow plows and salt trucks worked tirelessly to clear the way. Amidst the winter storm, Ontario Premier Doug Ford emerged, wielding a small red shovel to assist stranded drivers, even offering rides to those in need.

Ford’s gesture was met with mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a PR stunt while others saw it as a genuine display of his down-to-earth personality. Beyond the snow storm, Ford stands as a defender of Ontario’s sovereignty, facing off against President Trump’s threats and attempts to integrate Canada as the 51st state. He’s labeled as “Captain Canada” as he stands up for the country’s economy and honor. Ford’s actions range from removing American liquor from shelves to canceling contracts with companies linked to Trump allies. Despite the tough stance, he’s also engaged in talks to address the trade standoff and has been a regular figure on American news networks, advocating for Canada’s independence and criticizing Trump’s potential to drag Canada into recession through tariffs.

Ford’s leadership and staunch defense of Canadian sovereignty have sparked a newfound patriotic fervor across the nation. As politics in Canada see a shift with the recent change in Prime Minister, Ford’s early call for a provincial election and his majority win reflect his strategic maneuver to keep the focus on him and his policies.

However, his high-profile role in the international trade disputes has somewhat overshadowed domestic controversies, including criticized development plans and allegations of opaque real estate deals benefiting developers. Despite opposition to his plans for bike lanes and environmental land deals, Ford remains undeterred, seeing Trump’s attempts at annexation as a form of flattery, affirming Canada’s value and sovereignty.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/20/world/canada/trump-doug-ford-ontario-tariffs.html