Hub Podcasts Canada-U.S. trade negotiations and the revival of Canadian nationalism
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Jul 3, 2025 
David Frum, a prominent author and journalist, joins Sean Speer to dissect the intricate landscape of Canada-U.S. trade negotiations and the resurgence of Canadian nationalism. They delve into the complexities of the negotiations, particularly around the digital services tax, and how this ties to a burgeoning national identity. Frum highlights the significance of evolving political dynamics in the U.S., especially amid the changing narratives surrounding Canadian identity and history, offering fresh insights as Canada Day approaches.
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Trade Negotiations as an Abusive Dynamic
- Canadian policymakers wrongly assume rational complaints from Trump can be reasoned with or appeased.
- Trump's behavior is unpredictable and abusive, so no concession will truly mollify him.
Meet Bullying with Counterbullying
- Confront Trump's bullying with firm pushback, even if it risks pain or harm to Canada.
- Avoid trying to appease; instead, retaliate strategically to gain respect in negotiations.
Limits of Pragmatism in Ottawa
- Canadian officials instinctively seek win-win solutions to maintain sense and order in negotiations.
- This approach is ineffective against irrational dynamics and does not fit today’s political climate.
