Ontario premier threatens to cut power to 1.5 million U.S. homes - Here's why

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has issued a bold warning to the United States, threatening to halt electricity exports to New York, Michigan, and Minnesota in retaliation for President Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods. Ford claims Ontario powers roughly 1.5 million American homes and called the measure a “last resort” to protect Canadian families from economic fallout.

“If he wants to destroy our families, I’m going after everything!” Ford declared, following a virtual meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and fellow premiers to strategize against Trump’s tariff plan, which aims to curb drugs and unauthorized migration from Canada and Mexico. The U.S. relies heavily on Canada, importing 60% of its crude oil and 85% of its electricity, making Ford’s threat a potential flashpoint in cross-border relations.

The escalation follows Trump’s November 2024 pledge to impose sweeping tariffs unless border issues are addressed. While Ford pushes a hard line, other leaders, like Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, favor diplomacy over disrupting energy exports. Experts warn that cutting power could spike energy costs for Americans and ignite a broader trade war, though Ford’s ability to act unilaterally remains uncertain under Canada’s federal framework.

The standoff underscores the stakes in U.S.-Canada trade ties as both sides brace for a contentious 2025.