Free Republic

President Donald Trump announced a 35 percent tariff on Canadian imports starting August 1. The president's bold move is aimed at reinforcing the principle of putting America first, ensuring that American businesses can compete on a level playing field, and that workers receive the support they deserve. On Thursday, Trump revealed that the new tariffs would target Canadian goods entering the U.S., framing the move in response to “Canada’s retaliation” and persistent trade obstacles. In an official letter, he explained the reasons behind the sharp increase in tariffs, accusing Canada of not cooperating on critical matters—especially the flow of fentanyl...

On Saturday, two "Elbows Up" rallies returned to Western New York, drawing crowds at both Freedom Park in Buffalo and Terrapin Point in Niagara Falls. Dozens of participants expressed their opposition to tariffs already put in place by the Trump administration and comments made by the president about making Canada a ‘51st state’ back in January. According to a White House fact sheet in April, Canada was left off the list of countries receiving "reciprocal tariffs,” making them largely exempt from the then-sweeping tariffs. However, Tariffs still in place include a 25% tariff on non-compliant CUSMA goods, such as aluminum,...

Mark Carney leaned into his past as an ice hockey player during his successful campaign to become Canadian prime minister. “Elbows up,” became his battle cry and his promise to the electorate that he was ready to defend the country against Donald Trump and the American president’s aggressive moves on their country. It was one of the issues that turned around the election, propelling the Liberal candidate (and former ice hockey goal tender) to a come-from-behind victory. Voters decided that Mr Carney would do more to stand up to Washington than a conservative candidate, Pierre Poilievre, who leaned into comparisons...

Throwing an elbow -- in your opponent's face or ribs -- is hardly rare in hockey, but the move is closely associated Gordie Howe, one of the sport's greatest ever players. Howe, known to many as "Mr Hockey," was notorious for using his elbows to ward off opponents when battling for the puck. "We're a country that will be diplomatic when we can -- but fight when we must: 'Elbows up!'" outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said to a cheering crowd of Liberal Party supporters in his farewell address in Ottawa on Sunday. Rising to their feet, the crowd chanted...