Ontario Premier Doug Ford's recent television advertisements have sparked discussion due to their use of quotes from former President Ronald Reagan. Critics argue that the ads did not fully capture Reagan's extensive commentary on tariffs and protectionism, which could have strengthened Ford's message against Donald Trump's proposed tariff increases on Canada.

Reagan, a prominent figure in the Republican Party, spoke extensively about the dangers of protectionism. In a 1988 speech, he stated, "Protectionism has no future; it’s a dead and discredited idea." This sentiment reflects a broader economic philosophy that emphasizes free trade and open markets.

Ford's ads were pulled from American television shortly after Trump announced plans to raise tariffs on Canadian goods by an additional 10 percent. The historical context of Reagan's views on trade could have provided a more robust foundation for Ford's argument. For instance, during a speech to Canada's Parliament in 1981, Reagan highlighted the strong economic ties between the U.S. and Canada, stating, "Our joint trade… is greater than the gross national product of some 150 countries."

Reagan's remarks often emphasized the importance of cooperation over isolationism. In a 1987 address, he noted, "No two countries in the world… have as great a range of trade and investment exchanges at all levels… And the citizens of both our countries… have benefited accordingly."

In another speech in 1987, he praised the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement, saying it would establish the largest free trade area in the world and serve as a model for cooperation against protectionist tendencies. He asserted, "To those who would hunker down behind barriers… Canada and the United States will show the positive way."

Reagan's commitment to free trade was further illustrated when he signed the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement in 1988. He remarked, "This comprehensive agreement will benefit many sectors of the U.S. economy… It will secure access to Canada’s market for American manufacturing, agriculture, financial services, and high technology."

In a radio address that same year, he reiterated the importance of free trade, stating, "We will be an example to all the world of what free people can accomplish… the path to economic growth, job creation, and security is through negotiation and cooperation, not protectionism."

Reagan's legacy includes numerous statements advocating for open markets and trade expansion. He believed that protectionism would ultimately harm the economy, saying, "In a global economy, there can be no surer way of impoverishing ourselves than to try to make America go it alone."

As Ford navigates the complexities of trade relations with the U.S., the historical insights from Reagan's speeches could serve as valuable references for future discussions on trade policy and economic cooperation between Canada and the United States.