U.S. relations

Ontario’s NDP leader is critical of Premier Doug Ford’s visit to Washington.

The Premier was in Washington this week to promote his plans for a fair free trade deal.

However, Marit Stiles says it was nothing more than a glorified photo-op.

“Doug Ford spent taxpayer money to take a private jet to Washington and came back with nothing,” says Stiles.

“Not a single meeting with anyone from the U.S. administration. Just another photo op.”

Stiles also accuses Ford of cosplaying as Captain Canada or the Prime Minister.

“Ford is so busy pretending to be Prime Minister that he seems to have forgotten who he actually works for: the people of Ontario,” says Stiles.

Ford insists he’s had several meetings with Democratic and Republican members.

He says the Prime Minister is encouraging Premiers to continue lobby efforts toward a new deal with the U.S.

“He’s encouraged all the premiers, and we’re doing this, to go down, continue building relationships with governors, senators and Congress people,” says Ford.

He returned home to announce a new agreement with Pennsylvania to support increased cooperation in several areas, including expanded energy trade, critical minerals, manufacturing, and life sciences.