WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump has paused trade negotiations with Canada following a controversial advertisement from Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s government. The ad featured comments from former President Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs, which Trump labeled as "fraudulent."

Trump's reaction came after he claimed that Reagan supported tariffs, a statement that has drawn scrutiny. Doug Irwin, an economics professor at Dartmouth College and a former adviser on Reagan’s Council of Economic Advisers, provided insights into Reagan's trade philosophy. Irwin explained that Reagan was fundamentally opposed to tariffs, having lived through the Great Depression and often referencing the detrimental Smoot-Hawley Tariff of 1930 in his speeches.

Irwin described Reagan's core beliefs about trade as rooted in three principles: Principle, Pragmatism, and Politics. He noted that while Reagan valued free trade, he also had to navigate the complexities of political negotiations. In contrast, Irwin characterized Trump’s approach to trade as centered around three Rs: Revenue, Restriction, and Reciprocity. He argued that Trump’s shifting rationale for tariffs lacks a consistent core belief, allowing him to claim success regardless of the outcome.

The fallout from the advertisement has led to a pause in trade discussions. Trump stated on Air Force One that he received an apology from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney regarding the ad but indicated that negotiations would not resume. "No, but I have a very good relationship. I like him a lot, but you know, what they did was wrong," Trump said.

Despite the breakdown in talks, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright expressed hope for future cooperation between the two nations, particularly in the energy sector. Wright acknowledged that there have been challenges in the negotiations but emphasized the importance of collaboration on critical minerals and energy resources.

Before the ad controversy, discussions had been progressing on issues related to steel and aluminum tariffs, as well as the revival of the Keystone XL pipeline project. However, Trump’s recent comments suggest he is satisfied with the current trade arrangement, which includes various import taxes on Canadian goods.

The situation highlights the ongoing tensions in U.S.-Canada trade relations, particularly as both countries navigate their economic policies in a complex global landscape. Irwin expressed concern over the potential distortion of Reagan’s legacy by those who support Trump’s tariff policies, noting that Reagan was fundamentally against trade wars.

As the trade talks remain stalled, the implications for U.S.-Canada relations and the broader Republican economic philosophy continue to unfold, with both leaders facing pressure to find common ground amid rising tensions.