Ian Lee, a Carleton University economics professor, and Carlo Dade, a trade researcher at the Canada West Foundation, unpack the America First movement's real agenda. They highlight how Trump's tariffs are just the tip of the iceberg, aimed at a complete economic overhaul. The duo critiques Canadian politicians for their obliviousness to these threats, emphasizing the urgency for Canada to rethink its trade strategies. They reveal that U.S. policymakers aren't deterred by increased import prices, spotlighting the looming economic risks that Canadians need to face head-on.
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insights INSIGHT
Trump's Broader Threat
Trump's economic threat to Canada extends beyond tariffs.
He aims to overhaul the global economic system, starting with Canada.
insights INSIGHT
Trump's View on Global Economy
Trump views the post-WWII global economic architecture as a failure.
He seeks a complete redesign of this system.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Nixon's Tariff
In 1971, Nixon imposed a 10% tariff on all US imports.
This mirrors Trump's current rhetoric and strategy.
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In 'Hillbilly Elegy,' J.D. Vance recounts his life growing up in a dysfunctional family in Middletown, Ohio, with roots in Kentucky's Appalachia. The book details his experiences with poverty, addiction, and family violence, as well as his journey to joining the marines and eventually graduating from Yale Law School. Vance provides a personal and insightful look into the decline of the white working class in America, exploring themes of family, culture, and the loss of the American dream. The memoir also touches on the political swing of the region, particularly in relation to the 2016 presidential election and the appeal of Donald Trump to this demographic.
No Trade is Free
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Robert Lighthizer
Robert Lighthizer's "No Trade is Free" delves into the complexities of international trade, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by the United States. Lighthizer, a prominent figure in trade policy, argues for a more protectionist approach to safeguard American interests. The book examines historical trade agreements and their impact, emphasizing the need for a stronger negotiating stance. It critiques free trade agreements that have led to trade deficits and job losses in the US. Lighthizer's insights offer a critical perspective on global trade dynamics and the need for strategic trade policy.
It’s not just about tariffs. If you examine what the America First advisers around Trump really think, you’ll understand their determination to undertake a sweeping overhaul of the global economic system — and why they’re starting with Canada. Brian’s guests this week, trade researcher Carlo Dade, from the Canada West Foundation, and Ian Lee, public policy professor at Carlton University, have done their homework. That’s unlike many of our political leaders, who seem oblivious to the real threats — or who, worse, like certain Liberals, think they can exploit a destructive tariff war for partisan gain. As Ian and Carlo tell Brian, the people around Trump aren’t scared of higher import prices, and what they’re really interested in from Canada doesn’t even seem to be on Ottawa’s radar. (Recorded January 24, 2025)
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