Rudolph Angler Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visited Gander, Newfoundland, to reflect on Canada’s longstanding friendship with the United States.
Honoring Gander’s Role in 9/11 Support
On the second day of his election campaign, Carney stopped in the town that famously welcomed thousands of stranded Americans after the September 11 attacks.
In 2001, Gander sheltered nearly 6,600 diverted passengers when the US closed its airspace following the terror attacks. Locals opened their homes, cooked meals, and offered shelter in schools, churches, and fire stations to travelers in need.
Residents donated food, clothing, and toys while allowing passengers to use their phones and showers in private homes. Carney praised the town’s generosity, noting that it inspired the Broadway musical Come From Away, a tribute to kindness in times of crisis.
“When Americans were in need, Canadians stepped up,” Carney declared, emphasizing the enduring bond between the two nations—though he noted that bond is now under strain.
Carney Criticizes Trump for Strained Canada-US Relations
Despite celebrating past solidarity, Carney openly criticized US President Donald Trump for damaging the Canada–US alliance.
“In this crisis caused by the US president and his enablers, we mourn a friendship lost,” he stated.
Carney said Trump’s policies had pushed the bilateral relationship to its lowest point in history, eroding decades of trust. The imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum by the Trump administration triggered immediate retaliatory tariffs from Ottawa.
Canada responded by targeting a wide range of US-made goods, from sports equipment to household appliances. Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc condemned the measures, stating that Canada would not sit idly by amid unfair treatment.
Trump threatened further escalation, warning of potential tariffs on all Canadian products starting April 2. Additionally, his repeated comments about Canada becoming “the 51st state” outraged Canadians across the political spectrum.
Trade War Becomes a Key Election Issue
The growing tensions with Washington have become a central theme in Canada’s national election, scheduled for April 28.
Carney framed the trade dispute as a fight for Canada’s sovereignty, unity, and economic self-respect in the face of external pressures.
“Canada must now do extraordinary things for ourselves,” he stated, underscoring the need for resilience amid declining American leadership.
While Carney’s Liberal Party seeks a stronger foreign policy stance, Conservatives are challenging his handling of trade tensions. The election is shaping into a two-party contest, with voters divided on how to navigate Trump’s aggressive economic policies.
Meanwhile, Gander remains a symbol of compassion—a reminder of the solidarity that once united the two nations during times of crisis. Carney’s visit sought to reignite that spirit, even as Canada faces new challenges in its relationship with the US.