Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was berated during a photo op by cash-strapped steelworkers who said his policies were making it hard for their families to make ends meet.
Footage of a tense exchange in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Obtained by CTV News It became a hot topic.
The unidentified worker rejected Trudeau's offer of doughnuts and complained about high taxes, health care costs and perks given to people he deems “lazy.”
“The 25 per cent tariff that we've put in place will help you … it will keep your jobs,” Trudeau told the man.
“What about the 40 percent tax I pay? I don't even have a doctor,” the Algoma Steel worker countered.
Trudeau responded that the multimillion-dollar investment from the Canadian government means the man will have work “for years to come.”
The man responded that he expected Trudeau to lose the election.
“That's what elections are about,” the Liberal leader said, remaining calm and collected throughout the exchange. “We expect you to exercise your right to vote. … We are going to invest in you and your jobs.”
“I don't believe that for a second,” the steelworker retorted.
The man also said he felt unemployed Canadians had better access to affordable health care than he did, after Trudeau mentioned efforts to help hundreds of thousands of Canadians get dental care.
“Maybe like my neighbor who doesn't go to work because he's too lazy?” the steelworker asked.
“You know what? Most Canadians are trying to protect each other. We have to continue to do that,” Trudeau replied, wishing the man good luck. Finally, the worker appeared to refuse to shake Trudeau's hand.
Canada's next federal election is scheduled for Oct. 20, 2025. Trudeau's government has come under intense scrutiny amid a cost-of-living crisis gripping the country, but he remains optimistic.
“Inflation fell more than expected last month,” the chancellor said in a July 17 Facebook post.
“But the job isn't done until Canadians have peace of mind in their wallets, when they shop at the grocery store or when they pay their mortgage.”
