Donald Trump has once again targeted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, this time with a mocking new nickname.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, the former U.S. president referred to Trudeau as the “Governor of Canada”, a jab that many view as an attempt to belittle Trudeau’s role and Canada’s sovereignty.
The post came in the context of escalating trade tensions, with Trump announcing sweeping 25% tariffs on all goods imported from Canada, Mexico, and China—and an additional 10% tariff specifically on Canadian energy products.
"Please explain to Governor Trudeau, of Canada, that when he puts on a retaliatory tariff on the U.S., our reciprocal tariff will immediately increase by a like amount!" Trump wrote.
This was reported by Newsner.
Trudeau Fires Back
Trudeau responded firmly, accusing Trump of undermining North America’s closest alliance.
Speaking through AP News, Trudeau criticized both the trade decision and Trump’s ongoing coziness with authoritarian leaders.
"Today, the United States launched a trade war against Canada, their closest partner and ally, their closest friend," Trudeau said. "At the same time, they are talking about working positively with Russia, appeasing Vladimir Putin, a lying, murderous dictator. Make that make sense.”
Trudeau also took a direct shot at Trump, referencing an editorial from the Wall Street Journal: “I want to speak directly to one specific American, Donald. It’s not in my habit to agree with the Wall Street Journal, but Donald, they point out that even though you’re a very smart guy, this is a very dumb thing to do.”
Tariff Battle Heats Up
The nickname and online exchange follow Trump's suggestion that Canada could avoid U.S. tariffs by becoming the 51st American state—a comment widely dismissed in Ottawa but viewed by critics as part of Trump’s ongoing habit of making provocative and nationalistic statements.
Canada has promised retaliatory tariffs, and tensions between the two countries appear to be entering another combative phase.
The “Governor Trudeau” nickname joins a long list of Trump’s signature monikers for political rivals. From “Sleepy Joe” (Joe Biden) to “Little Marco” (Marco Rubio), and even “Rocket Man” (North Korea’s Kim Jong-un), Trump’s branding tactics are as much a political tool as they are a media spectacle.
