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While the federal government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has done much of the heavy lifting to protect the industry in Canada, Wynne played up her own efforts.

They’re going to be choosing a person to lead them who will be in some very tricky, very delicate negotiations with U.S. officials … That’s the reality of the role premier (and) we cannot let ideology get in our way

“Over the past year, I have met with 37 governors, I have met with senators, I’ve met with congresspeople, I’ve met with senior members of the U.S. administration, all in an attempt to make it clear what our integrated relationship means to workers on both sides of the border,” said Wynne, who has been trailing behind her rivals in recent polls.

“We were assertive, we were steadfast in our effort to makeOntario’s case to those decision makers. That threat of U.S. protectionism is not going to scare us off.”

Wynne saidOntariohas developed one of the strongest economies in North America under aLiberalgovernment that worked with employees, business leaders, and political leaders on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border.

Voters have a choice on June 7 between her and her two inexperienced rivals, she said.

“They’re going to be choosing a person to lead them who will be in some very tricky, very delicate negotiations with U.S. officials,” Wynne said. “That’s the reality of the rolepremier(and) we cannot let ideology get in our way.”

Horwath, who portrayed herself as a champion of steel and steelworkers, rejected Wynne’s comments as “trying to stir up some trouble.” She said she had been vocal in her support of the industry.