This week has revealed a lot about Canadian politics, but one of the most notable things that has been revealed is just how similar the Conservatives and the Liberals are when it comes to immigration, foreign policy and trade. In fact it is becoming increasingly clear that on those three issues and many others, Canada is given an illusion of choice. The United States ultimately pulls the strings of Canada on these issues. Our government and the opposition are in lockstep on the issues until the United States decides to change course, all of a sudden both parties switch gears hoping people might think there’s something that separates them.

Donald Trump’s threat of a crippling 25% tariff has showed Canadians that ultimately we are entirely beholden to the decisions of the United States. Is that what sovereignty looks like? Or is Canada just a very large Puerto Rico?