(Reuters) – Liam Mooney, founder of an Ottawa-based design firm, made a hat that read “Canada is Not for Sale” in response to Trump’s tariff threats and suggestions that Canada becomes the 51st state of the United States.
The caps gained attention after Ontario Premier Doug Ford wore one during a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other state premiers in Ottawa last week to discuss Trump’s pledge to impose tariffs on imports from Canada.
According to Mooney, tens of thousands of hats have been ordered online since then.
Mooney told Reuters he created the hats as a creative rebuttal to President Trump’s rhetoric, aiming to cut through political discourse with a message of nationalism and unity.
“It’s an opportunity to bring together people from across civil society, regardless of political persuasion,” Mooney said.
Tariffs would harm Canada’s economy and also increase the price of oil and other products in the United States.
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Trump is threatening tariffs at a time of political turmoil in Canada, with Liberal leader Trudeau set to leave office in March after nearly a decade in power, and the opposition Conservatives leading in polls ahead of a federal election later this year. .
Mooney said he and his business partner created the hats after seeing one of Ford’s recent interviews on Fox News. The presenter asked the prime minister to consider annexation, suggesting it would be a “privilege” for Canada to merge with the US.
Ford responded that Canada is not for sale.
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Trump, speaking by video to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Thursday, said he demanded respect from Canada. He had previously addressed Trudeau as “governor.”
“Our sovereignty is threatened when our dignity is disrespected,” Mooney said. “We have allies and friends around the world who are ready to answer the call and stand up for us and participate.”
