At Issue What if Trump blows up the CUSMA trade deal?
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Dec 5, 2025 Guests Althia Raj, a political columnist, Chantal Hébert, a national affairs journalist, and Andrew Coyne, an opinion columnist, dive into Trump’s potential exit from CUSMA and its implications for Canada. They explore the procedural risks and political incentives surrounding U.S. trade reviews, stressing the importance of alignment with Mexico. The discussion shifts to the backlash against Mark Miller’s French comments in Quebec and examines the impact of John Rustad's departure from B.C. Conservatives on provincial dynamics.
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Walkaway Threats May Be Negotiating Tactics
- Donald Trump's threat to walk away from CUSMA is likely strategic bluster rather than a firm decision.
- Canada should prepare for uncertainty and set clear negotiating bottom lines to avoid being taken advantage of.
Rhetoric Masks The Real Timeline
- Public U.S. hearings will reveal concrete U.S. priorities early next year rather than presidential rhetoric.
- A year-to-year review could be used by the U.S. to keep leverage without collapsing the deal before midterms.
Stick With Mexico As A Common Front
- Canada should coordinate closely with Mexico to avoid being picked off with separate bilateral deals.
- Strengthen common cause with Mexico to preserve negotiating leverage against the U.S.
