Trump wants to squeeze us hard enough so we come begging

Our test is to prove him wrong, and not sacrifice the future for the present.

U.S. President Donald Trump's pressures will aim to divide Canadians both between industries and between regions, that the U.S. seeks to dominate the Western Hemisphere, including Canada, and sees us as a vassal state. Canadian resolve will be sorely tested and there will be influential Canadians arguing for costly appeasement, writes David Crane. Image courtesy of Pixabay/Gabriel Douglas

Opinion

BY DAVID CRANE

January 12, 2026

TORONTO—The Carney government—and, ultimately the country—faces a crucial test over the next six months: how much economic pain are we prepared to endure in the short run to preserve our capacity as a prosperous and sovereign nation in the long run?

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Weekend Point of View Newsletter

Top Canadian political and policy opinion and analysis. Saturdays and Sundays. Weekends.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy

FOLLOW THE HILL TIMES: