U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed regret over the Ontario government’s advertisement using former President Ronald Reagan’s words to convey an anti-tariff message to an American audience. Trump mentioned during a press briefing aboard Air Force One that although he maintains a positive relationship with Carney, he believed the ad was misleading. Carney subsequently confirmed his apology to Trump and stated that he disapproved of the ad’s content, emphasizing that it was not a decision he would have made.
The controversy stemmed from a one-minute ad launched by the Ontario government on October 14, featuring excerpts from Reagan’s 1987 radio address discussing free trade. While the ad selectively portrayed Reagan’s views on tariffs, the former president was known for advocating free trade policies during his tenure. Following the ad’s airing, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute criticized the Ontario government on social media, prompting Trump to halt trade negotiations with Canada, denouncing the ad as deceptive.
Carney admitted that he had seen the ad beforehand and had advised Ontario Premier Doug Ford against its broadcast. Despite Ford ultimately agreeing to pause the ad campaign after its re-airing during the World Series, the fallout led to strained trade negotiations between the U.S. and Canada. Trump mentioned a recent meeting with Carney at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit, where they had a positive interaction despite the ad controversy. Trump also acknowledged a previous apology received for the ad, indicating ongoing tensions surrounding the issue.
Ford’s office declined to provide additional comments beyond the premier’s prior statements regarding the ad. The situation reflects the complexities of international trade relations and underscores the importance of clear communication and alignment between government entities.
