Carney Says Sorry to Trump Over ‘Fake Reagan’ Ad – Tariffs Stay, Trade Talks on Ice
Published Date: 1 Nov, 2025
November 1, 2025 – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney personally apologized to President Donald Trump for an Ontario ad that spliced Ronald Reagan’s voice to attack U.S. tariffs. The mea culpa, delivered over dinner at the APEC summit, failed to lift a new 10 % levy on Canadian exports or restart stalled trade talks.
The Ad That Lit the Fuse
The 30-second spot, produced by Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s office, aired during Game 3 of the World Series. It featured archival Reagan footage warning that “tariffs hurt everyone.” The Reagan Foundation called it “deceptive deep-fake manipulation” and demanded its removal. Ford pulled the ad on October 27 after Trump labeled it “election interference” and froze bilateral negotiations.
Summit Dinner Apology
Carney confirmed the exchange to reporters outside the summit venue. “I told the president the ad was a mistake and should never have run,” he said. “I apologized on behalf of Canada.” Trump, speaking to Fox News en route to Joint Base Andrews, called the gesture “nice” but non-committal on tariff relief.
Tariffs Bite Deeper
The 10 % surcharge—stacked on existing steel, aluminum, and softwood duties—went live at midnight October 31. Economists estimate a $4.2 billion annual hit to Canadian exporters, with Ontario auto parts and Quebec aluminum hardest pressed. Ottawa has filed a formal WTO challenge but expects no quick ruling.
Ford Defiant, Carney Disciplined
Ford told Queen’s Park reporters he “stands by the message, not the method.” Carney countered that provinces must clear foreign-policy messaging with the PMO. A federal directive issued today requires pre-approval for any ad referencing U.S. leadership.
Next Moves
- Supreme Court: Oral arguments on Trump tariff authority set for December 4.
- Back-channel: Carney aides are quietly scheduling a Mar-a-Lago working lunch before year-end.
- Retaliation watch: Ottawa is drafting mirror tariffs on U.S. coal and citrus but holding fire.
As APEC leaders pose for the family photo, the North American trade thaw remains firmly on hold.
Date: 1 Nov, 2025
