Winnipeg Mayor Finds Common Ground with U.S. Counterparts Amid Trade Tensions

Winnipeg’s mayor, Scott Gillingham, recently returned from a meeting with the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Phoenix, where he was met with an unexpectedly warm reception. Despite the ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States, Gillingham noted that the mayors he spoke with expressed a deep respect for Canada’s sovereignty and a shared concern over the impact of tariffs on cities. The conference provided Gillingham with valuable insights into how the current trade tensions are affecting municipal leaders in the U.S. and reinforced the understanding that tariffs harm cities on both sides of the border.

A Message of Respect and Cooperation

During the conference, Gillingham shared a notable exchange with a mayor from California, who approached him to say, “I just want you to know we do not want you to be the 51st state. We respect Canada’s sovereignty.” This sentiment was echoed by mayors from both Democratic and Republican backgrounds. Gillingham emphasized that there was a unanimous understanding among the U.S. mayors he spoke with: tariffs are detrimental to cities and their economies. This mutual recognition highlights the importance of collaboration and cooperation between municipal leaders, regardless of national-level disputes.

Winnipeg’s Push to Buy Canadian

In response to the trade tensions, Winnipeg’s municipal government is taking proactive steps to support Canadian businesses and reduce reliance on American products. City staff are currently reviewing the products and services Winnipeg purchases from the U.S. to identify opportunities to switch to Canadian alternatives. This initiative aligns with the broader “Buy Canadian” movement, which aims to strengthen local economies and reduce the potential impact of trade disputes. By prioritizing Canadian suppliers, Winnipeg hopes to contribute to a more resilient and self-sufficient economy.

Coordination with Provincial Government

Gillingham also highlighted the city’s close collaboration with the provincial government in navigating the challenges of the trade dispute. Winnipeg is carefully monitoring the province’s procurement rules and any potential changes, such as restrictions on U.S. companies bidding on Manitoba and Winnipeg projects. “We’re watching what the province does as far as their procurement rules,” Gillingham explained, adding that the city will follow the province’s lead closely. This coordinated approach reflects the importance of alignment between municipal and provincial policies in addressing trade-related uncertainties.

Protecting Key Industries from Tariffs

In addition to procurement changes, the city is actively assessing which industries could be most affected by tariffs, such as agriculture and aerospace. Behind-the-scenes efforts are underway to develop strategies to mitigate the potential impacts of the trade war. By understanding the vulnerabilities of these industries, Winnipeg can take targeted actions to support businesses and workers. This proactive approach demonstrates the city’s commitment to safeguarding its economy and ensuring long-term stability.

Conclusion: A Path Forward Through Cooperation

The warm reception Gillingham received in Phoenix and the shared concerns among U.S. and Canadian mayors underscore the importance of collaboration in addressing trade challenges. By working together, municipal leaders can advocate for policies that protect cities from the negative effects of tariffs and promote mutual respect between nations. Winnipeg’s efforts to buy Canadian and coordinate with the provincial government are key steps in building a more resilient local economy. As trade tensions continue to evolve, the focus on cooperation and reciprocity offers a hopeful path forward for both Canada and the United States.