The Globe and Mail reports in its Saturday, Jan. 13, edition that President Donald Trump's mounting political and legal troubles may prompt him to seek comfort in one of his favourite pursuits: bashing trade partners. The Globe's Barrie McKenna writes that like a cornered dog, Mr. Trump is ready to bite. The U.S. administration is apparently plotting the elements of a broad trade crackdown, with the details expected to be laid out in the State of the Union address at the end of the month, according to a report last week in Politico. The President is also heading this month to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where aides say he will push his "'America First' agenda with world leaders." Canada's recent experience suggests the United States is ready to play rough. The Trump administration has taken a hard line in disputes over softwood lumber, newsprint and Bombardier's C Series aircraft. Protectionism is fertile ground for Mr. Trump. It plays well with his voter base, particularly among isolationists who blame free trade for the demise of factory jobs. Mr. Trump, however, also risks angering many in his own Republican Party, who are urging him to take a less aggressive stance.