Obama attacks Trump tariffs on Canada at Detroit rally ahead of midterms

Former President Barack Obama used a campaign rally in Detroit on Saturday to denounce President Donald Trump’s tariff policy toward Canada. He said the 50% duties imposed on Canadian imports, including automobiles, have raised production costs for Michigan’s auto supply chain and have upset Canadian partners. Obama noted that Canada responded with matching counter-tariffs after the United States introduced the measures.

"He’s upset Canadians with his abuse of the country and talks of making it the 51st state," Obama said.

He also addressed the controversy surrounding Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy’s advertisement that features the estranged mother of Democratic opponent Dr. Amy Acton. Obama described the ad as a low-level attack, citing Acton’s personal history of abuse and homelessness.

"In recent days, we’ve seen there is no line he will not cross, no low he will not sink to," Obama said of Ramaswamy.

The former president defended Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, emphasizing his connection to Michigan and rejecting criticisms that label him a radical.

"Abdul is as Michigan as it gets," Obama told the audience.

Obama’s remarks came as Trump campaigned in Florida, defending the Ramaswamy ad and indicating that some tariffs would be lifted at the end of the month while new duties on additional Canadian products were announced.

"The mother said that Amy Acton is a liar, and she’s no good," Trump said.

Democratic organizers said Obama’s appearance was intended to energize voters in key battleground states ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.