Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Matthew Shoemaker has condemned the recent decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on Canadian goods entering the United States, calling the move “reckless” and harmful to both nations.
In a statement issued Saturday, Shoemaker said that the tariffs would disrupt a long-standing trade relationship that has benefited businesses and workers on both sides of the border.
“The decision to impose a tariff on Canadian goods is not just poor economic policy – it is reckless, short-sighted, and will hurt businesses and workers on both sides of the border,” Shoemaker said.
“There are no real winners in a trade war, just economic hardship for both Canada and the United States.”
The mayor emphasized the unique economic and cultural ties between Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., and its neighbouring city, Sault Ste. Marie, MI. The two cities, often referred to as the “Twin Saults,” are connected by an international bridge that facilitates daily cross-border activities, from work commutes to recreational trips.
“Nowhere is this more evident than in Sault Ste. Marie, where Ontario and Michigan share more than just a name in the Twin Saults – we share an economy, a history of cooperation, and an international bridge that links us together,” Shoemaker said.
Shoemaker also expressed concern about the potential impact of the tariffs on local industries, particularly Algoma Steel, a major employer in the region. He pledged to work closely with the Border Mayors Alliance and continue advocating for a resolution to the trade dispute.
The mayor called on the Canadian federal and provincial governments to respond swiftly to the tariffs, urging them to prioritize the economic well-being of Canadians over internal political concerns.
“They must respond swiftly and decisively,” Shoemaker said. “I urge them to shift focus from internal party concerns or electoral prospects to the financial prospects and real-life concerns of people across the country. Our economic future depends on it.”
The City of Sault Ste. Marie stated it will support any actions taken by higher levels of government to address the tariffs and mitigate their impact on local businesses and residents.
