Talks on Ice
The diplomatic relationship between the U.S. and Canada cooled considerably last week after Ontario Premiere Doug Ford ran a television ad that included former U.S. President Ronald Reagan seemingly criticizing tariffs. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation released a statement saying the ad “misrepresents” the former president, and current U.S. President Donald Trump halted trade talks with Canada in retaliation. Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney called for the ads to be taken down and for trade talks to resume, but President Trump instead increased tariffs on Canada by 10 percent.
Analysis and eternal perspective: Trade policy—and particularly tariffs—have been in the news a lot this year. President Trump has used them frequently as a negotiating tool with trade partners, which has been met by a divided response from his own party. It is unusual, however, for a former president’s foundation to be drawn into a current political debate. It is also worth noting how significant an impact an advertisement made on a major foreign affairs matter.
The Equipped community’s views on tariffs are most certainly varied. The debate over the utility of tariffs versus the economic impact on consumers is not likely to end any time soon. Even so, we should endeavor to faithfully apply a couple of familiar biblical principles to our consideration of this story.
First, “avoid foolish and stupid arguments.” That sounds harsh, but it’s the direct instruction from 2 Timothy 2:23. There is a substantive debate here which may warrant your attention, and then there is the personal back and forth between the country’s elected leaders that almost certainly does not.
Next, “as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Rom. 12:18). This story is a vivid example of a common current tactic, which aims specifically to divide for the purpose of achieving a certain policy or political end. Decline to take the bait. The substance should be engaged in a thoughtful way, but no matter your policy position, firmly decline the temptation to let this spat rob you of your peace with others.
It is likely this is not the final round of trade disputes with Canada or other nations. Let’s proactively divide substance from hyperbole and fervently choose peace over division.
The following article originally appeared in Thann’s “The Equipped” Weekly Newsletter. For more information on Thann’s weekly email, click here.