‘Nobody’s going to be left on their own’: Warden says unity through tariffs the only way through  

The Warden's Luncheon took place at the Ciociaro Club in Oldcastle, Ont. on March 28, 2025. (Kate Otterbein/CTV News Windsor)

The hot topic at Friday’s Warden’s Luncheon was unity amid a tense trade war.

Hilda MacDonald, Essex County’s warden and Leamington mayor, stressed the only way through these tough times is together.

“We’re working together as a region and I believe that’s how we get through this,” said MacDonald.

“Nobody’s going to be left or stuck on their own.”

MacDonald cited her experience as mayor during the COVID-19 pandemic, saying those relationships helped survive through that time. Especially because Canada won’t be the only country that is impacted.

Hilda MacDonald Hilda MacDonald, Essex County Warden and mayor of Leamington, seen in Oldcastle, Ont. on March 28, 2025. (Kate Otterbein/CTV News Windsor)

“We need to build on those relationships and those opportunities,” she said. “We look to Europe; we look to Asia. The United States may very well end up being the odd man out because of these moves. I’m optimistic. Do I think we’ll have some tough times? I believe so, but can we get through? Yeah, why would we not?”

The event saw community members from across Windsor-Essex join at the Ciociaro Club in Oldcastle.