Certain politicians are leveraging public fears following Donald Trump’s tariff threats on Canadian goods to advance their agendas, especially regarding Quebec’s sovereignty. Federalists are using fear-based rhetoric to argue against independence, despite evidence showing Quebec could effectively represent its interests as a sovereign entity. The article emphasizes the need for calm and rational governance rather than sensationalism, highlighting that previous tariff measures have often backfired. It calls for a pragmatic approach to navigate current challenges without succumbing to fear-driven decisions.
Exploiting Fears for Political Gain
Since Donald Trump regained power and threatened to implement a hefty 25% tariff on Canadian goods, certain politicians have seized the opportunity to capitalize on public fears. Their aim? To foster a climate of anxiety that serves their political ambitions.
The Reality of Quebec’s Economic Landscape
Federalists have quickly returned to their go-to strategies, deploying clichés and instilling fear regarding Quebec’s sovereignty. They claim that “a referendum would benefit Trump,” or that “Canada is essential for Quebec’s protection,” while asserting that “an independent Quebec would struggle economically.” However, the truth paints a different picture.
The so-called “Canadian shield” has not shielded Quebec from U.S. tariffs, and Canadian diplomacy has faltered in countering Trump’s aggressive tactics. Instead of a united front, provinces are negotiating independently with the U.S., revealing a fragmented Canada where Quebec’s interests often clash with those of its counterparts.
For federalist leaders, repeating these clichés and manipulating the situation to scare the public about independence is a favored approach. Ironically, those who oppose Quebec’s independence fervently advocate for Canada’s sovereignty. Recently, Stephen Harper remarked, “I would accept any level of damage to preserve the country’s independence.” If it’s beneficial for Canada, why should it be detrimental for Quebec?
An independent Quebec could effectively advocate for its interests—much like the 200 sovereign nations across the globe. The politics of fear are not sustainable.
In his remarks on February 4, François Legault employed alarming rhetoric, using terms like “brutal attack,” “poison,” and “anguish.” During sensitive and complicated times, we expect our government to refrain from inducing fear or staging media spectacles akin to those witnessed during the pandemic. While it’s important to acknowledge the implications of Trump’s election, we shouldn’t revert to a pandemic-like atmosphere.
Citizens expect their government to navigate these challenges with pragmatism rather than exploiting their genuine concerns. Rushed measures or silencing dissent under the guise of solidarity would only impair Quebec’s capability to tackle emerging threats effectively.
In light of tariff threats, maintaining composure is essential. Both the media and politicians should steer clear of sensationalism and overreactions. Currently, these tariffs have not been enacted, and financial markets have shown resilience, signaling to the American president that his actions cannot go unchallenged.
President Trump has previously employed a similar tactic from 2017 to 2021, imposing and subsequently lifting tariffs. We have faced this before, and these measures often end up harming the very nation that enacts them.
Instead of succumbing to a cycle of fear and rash decisions—such as the idea of imposing additional tariffs on ourselves—we must face this situation with clarity and confidence in our ability to safeguard our interests.
Pascal Paradis
Member of the National Assembly for Jean-Talon
Spokesperson for the Parti Québécois on International Relations and Francophonie