The column argues Trump turned on Canada after setbacks with Iran: tariffs plus a “Lake America” rename for Lake Ontario, framed as payback for years of being “ripped off.” Greer is quoted saying the duties hurt Canada far more than the U.S.

The author says bullying backfired: Carney’s planned dollar-for-dollar retaliation (from 8 September; Trump’s threatened 50% auto tariffs from 1 January) boosted Liberals in three by-elections and may weaken Quebec and Alberta separatist votes this autumn.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll cited: 57% of Americans oppose the Canada tariffs, 63% oppose renaming the lake; border-state Democrats are attacking GOP candidates who won’t condemn the duties. The piece calls the fight avoidable but expects no easy end.

What do bullies do when someone stands up to their bullying and punches them in the face? They look for someone weaker to bully who won’t punch back.

Presumably that’s why Donald Trump has now taken on Canada, after Iran punched back so hard in the cage match the U.S. president began more than six months ago as to leave him humiliated and baffled.

Trump wants to be the bully who humiliates others and forces them into submission. Needing to assert his dominance, Trump has now started a trade war with our northern neighbor, friend, second-largest trading partner (after Mexico), and, at least until now, reliable ally.

He’s hammering Canada on his Truth Social and in media appearances, saying Canada has “ripped off” the U.S. for years, and signing........

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