The White House has dubbed Wednesday "Liberation Day" in the U.S. as more tariffs are set to come into effect, however the press secretary is remaining tight-lipped on what the event could entail.
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt spoke to media at the White House on Tuesday (April 1) and she said U.S. President Donald Trump would be taking "historic action" to "improve American competitiveness in every area of industry, reduce our massive trade deficits and ultimately protect our economic and national security."
"It's simple. If you make your product in America, you will pay no tariffs."
However, Leavitt has held back from divulging what the "Liberation Day" will involve.
"It would be taking place today, if not for April Fool's Day."
On Wednesday (April 2), 25-per-cent tariffs on Canadian and Mexican steel and aluminum, as well as goods that are not compliant with the North American free trade pact, are set to come into effect. There had been a pause in place.
Since then, Trump has also signed an executive order March 26 for 25-per-cent tariffs against the automotive industry. Those tariffs would impact the import of automobiles and certain automobile parts.
Liberal Party of Canada Leader Mark Carney has said Canada's old relationship with the U.S. is over. But on March 28, Carney, in his first phone call with Trump since he was sworn in as prime minister on March 14, said he has a "very constructive conversation" with his U.S. counterpart.
Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre has condemned the "unjustified and unprovoked" tariffs . He said the tariffs will damage Trump's workers and his economy, just as they will in Canada.
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has said Canadian jobs are under attack.
