Premier Doug Ford says he needs a "clear mandate" from Ontario voters to wage an economic battle against potentially devastating tariffs U.S. President Donald Trump says could come on Feb. 1.

Ford's comments to reporters Monday at Queen's Park following Trump's inauguration were the clearest indication yet he intends to call an election in the province, after months of fuelling speculation of an early vote.

"These are negotiations that are going to go on for quite some time right now. And make no mistake about it: he's coming for us," Ford said of Trump. "I need a clear mandate from the people of Ontario. Not for tomorrow, or the next day — for four years of dealing with our American friends."