In a bold and biting editorial, Montreal’s Le Journal de Montréal has made waves by branding former U.S. President Donald Trump as “STUPID(e)” in response to his recent threat of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods.
The headline, which plays on the French word for “stupid,” has gone viral, capturing the frustration and anger of many Canadians over what they see as an unjustified economic attack on their country.
The editorial accuses Trump of recklessly endangering the economic partnership between the U.S. and Canada, a relationship that has long been one of the most stable and mutually beneficial in the world. The tariffs, which target key Canadian exports like aluminum, steel, and dairy products, have been described by Quebec Premier François Legault as a “brutal economic attack” that could devastate industries on both sides of the border.
A History of Tensions
This isn’t the first time Trump has clashed with Canada over trade. During his first term, he imposed similar tariffs, citing national security concerns, a move that many saw as a thinly veiled attempt to strong-arm Canada into renegotiating NAFTA. The resulting trade war led to billions of dollars in retaliatory tariffs and strained relations between the two countries.
Now, with Trump back in office, it seems history is repeating itself. His administration has framed the tariffs as a necessary measure to protect American jobs and industries, but critics argue that they are more about political posturing than economic necessity.
Canadian Response: “We Will Not Be Bullied”
Canadian leaders have been quick to condemn the tariffs and vow retaliation. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has promised a “swift and firm” response, while Quebec’s government is considering measures such as removing American wines from provincial liquor store shelves. Finance Minister Eric Girard stated, “We will not be bullied. If the U.S. wants to escalate, we are ready to respond.”
The editorial in Le Journal de Montréal reflects the growing frustration among Canadians, who feel that Trump’s policies are not only economically harmful but also deeply disrespectful. The newspaper’s cover, featuring the word “STUPID(e)” in bold letters, has been widely shared on social media, with many Canadians expressing their agreement.
The Bigger Picture
The tariffs are just one part of a broader pattern of behavior that has alienated many of America’s traditional allies. Trump’s “America First” policies have often come at the expense of international cooperation, and his combative rhetoric has made it difficult to build consensus on global issues.
For Canada, the stakes are particularly high. The U.S. is by far its largest trading partner, and any disruption to that relationship could have serious economic consequences. But as Le Journal de Montréal points out, the damage goes beyond dollars and cents. Trump’s actions are seen as an attack on the values of fairness and mutual respect that have long underpinned the U.S.-Canada relationship.
A Viral Moment
The “STUPID(e)” headline has struck a chord not just in Canada but around the world. Social media users have praised the newspaper for its bluntness, with one Twitter user calling it “the most Canadian way to call someone out.” Others have noted the irony of a conservative-leaning publication like Le Journal de Montréal taking such a strong stance against Trump, who has often been aligned with right-wing populist movements.
What’s Next?
As the tariff dispute escalates, both countries face difficult choices. For Canada, the challenge will be to stand firm without further inflaming tensions. For the U.S., the question is whether Trump’s hardline approach will yield the results he promises or simply deepen the economic and political divides.
In the meantime, the “STUPID(e)” headline serves as a reminder of the growing frustration with Trump’s policies, not just in Canada but around the world. It’s a bold statement from a country that has long prided itself on diplomacy and restraint—and a sign that patience with Trump’s antics may be wearing thin.