State of the World from NPR Looking Back: Canadians Grapple with the Wide Impacts of U.S. Tariffs
Dec 25, 2025
Jackie Northam, NPR's international affairs correspondent, shares insights from her reporting in Nova Scotia, where U.S. tariffs reshaped local industries, particularly lobster fishing. She highlights how these tariffs influenced Canadian politics, driving voters towards leaders who could counter U.S. pressure. Northam also explores the community’s resilience in the face of uncertainty and economic upheaval, as businesses seek new markets amidst fears of ongoing disruptions. Additionally, the podcast touches on a surge of Canadian pride and backlash against U.S. policies.
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Tariffs Shaped Canadian Politics
- Jackie Northam linked tariffs directly to the Canadian election that elevated a leader seen able to handle Trump.
- She noted Mark Carney's economic credentials helped voters choose someone to manage U.S. pressure.
Small Town, Big Stakes
- Lobstermen in Clarks Harbour described how tariffs threatened their town's entire economy that depends on lobster.
- Marty Atwood and others said a 25% U.S. tariff would be crippling and force the community to suffer.
Reciprocity Multiplies Economic Pain
- Tariffs often trigger reciprocal actions that compound harm across multiple markets.
- Canada already faced Chinese tariffs on lobster after levies on Chinese electric vehicles.