JD Vance reportedly mocks Carney for trying to ‘out-tough’ Trump on trade

Leaked audio from a private New York fundraiser has captured remarks by US Vice-President JD Vance, where he mocked Canada's apparent concessions in a trade deal and taunted Prime Minister Mark Carney for attempting to "out-tough" President Donald Trump. The recording, shared with the Canadian Press, was reportedly made at a time when the US president threatened to impose 50% tariffs on Canada.

In the audio, Vance, describing Carney as "a very sweet guy," acknowledged their friendly rapport but criticized Carney's tough approach, saying, "It's hilarious because Carney presents this as some victory for Canada when fundamentally, like, they climb down on a lot of issues." The leaked recording could strain relations between the two delegations as a deal is nearing, potentially including the resumption of US alcohol sales across Canada in exchange for avoiding the worst of Trump's tariffs.

Trump initially announced the tariffs on August 19 but backed down and announced a three-day pause. Canadian producers of wine, beer, and spirits have stated that the boycott has significantly impacted their sales, with imports down approximately 81% year-on-year. Canadian Premier Wab Kinew and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston confirmed that Carney had urged provinces to allow US alcohol back onto shelves.

Kinew encouraged Canadians to continue boycotting US products and buy Canadian alternatives instead, emphasizing Canada's strength in standing firm against Trump's threats.