The premier’s comments followed Trudeau’s earlier remarks, where the prime minister took a different stance.

Toronto, March 5, 2025 – Amid the US-Canada trade war, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has called for an end to the booing of national anthems by Canadians and Americans alike, a plea that contrasts sharply with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s defense of the practice amid escalating trade tensions with the United States.

Ford made his appeal during a Tuesday news conference, where he outlined Ontario’s strategy to counter a fresh 25 percent tariff slapped on Canadian goods by U.S. President Donald Trump earlier that day. While recognizing the economic strain caused by the tariffs, Ford urged citizens on both sides of the border to maintain mutual respect. “I’m asking everyone—don’t boo the Canadian or American national anthem,” he said earnestly. “Boo the refs or the players if you must, but targeting the anthem crosses a boundary we shouldn’t cross.”

The premier’s comments followed Trudeau’s earlier remarks, where the prime minister took a different stance. Addressing reporters, Trudeau suggested that Canadians’ booing of the U.S. anthem reflects their frustration with Trump’s policies rather than animosity toward Americans. “It’s likely we’ll keep booing the American anthem,” he stated. “But to Americans, I say this: it’s not about you, your teams, or your athletes—it’s about a policy that’s hurting us. We’re upset, we’re insulted, but we’re Canadian. We’ll stand together, fight back, and come out on top.”

The anthem booing has surged recently at sporting events, including last weekend’s WWE Elimination Chamber in Toronto, where Canadian fans drowned out the U.S. anthem with jeers. The practice has become a symbol of the souring relationship between the two nations as trade disputes intensify. Ford also took a moment to defend hockey icon Wayne Gretzky, who has been criticized online for his association with Trump, calling the attacks on Gretzky unfair.