President Reagan's Radio Address on Canadian Elections and Free Trade on...

President Reagan’s radio address on November 26, 1988, focused on the outcome of the recent Canadian elections and the broader topic of free trade. He congratulates Canada’s Prime Minister Mulroney and emphasizes that both Canadian and American voters have rejected protectionism in favor of expanding trade. Reagan traces free trade’s historical importance, citing America’s founding principles and referencing Adam Smith’s "The Wealth of Nations."

He warns against protectionism by noting its disastrous effect during the Great Depression—specifically the Smoot-Hawley Tariff—and credits open trade policies for America’s prosperity and job growth. Reagan argues that trade should not be viewed as a form of war; rather, he promotes fair trade as mutually beneficial and essential for strengthening alliances.

He criticizes politicians who use protectionist rhetoric as cheap nationalism, saying this weakens both the economy and national security. Reagan celebrates international economic expansion as an American achievement, not a threat, and highlights post-WWII U.S. leadership in dismantling trade barriers.

Looking ahead, Reagan mentions upcoming trade talks in Montreal aiming to improve dispute resolution, agriculture, services, investment, and intellectual property protections. He closes by reaffirming that free trade remains central to peace, freedom, and America’s future prosperity.youtube​

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tp1T7kPEdDY