Key facts
- Leaked audio reportedly features US Vice President JD Vance mocking Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
- Vance suggested Carney attempted to "out-tough" Donald Trump during trade negotiations.
Leaked audio reportedly captures US Vice President JD Vance mocking Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for attempting to "out-tough" Donald Trump during trade deal negotiations. Vance suggested Carney's claims of victory were hollow, as Canada conceded on many issues.
The reported comments by JD Vance could strain delicate trade negotiations between the US and Canada at a critical juncture. The exchange highlights the aggressive trade tactics employed by Donald Trump and the internal political dynamics influencing Canada's response.
Leaked audio from a private event reportedly captures US Vice President JD Vance mocking Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for attempting to "out-tough" Donald Trump during ongoing trade negotiations. Vance is heard telling supporters that Carney "puffs his chest out" and claims victory on issues where Canada has fundamentally "climb[ed] down."
The recording, shared with the Canadian Press, comes as the US president has threatened to impose 50% tariffs on Canada. Canadian officials have indicated a deal is close, which may include Canada allowing US alcohol sales nationwide again in exchange for avoiding the harshest tariffs. Trump initially set an August 19 deadline for the tariffs but later announced a three-day pause.
The White House stated the proposed tariffs were retaliation for Canada's "discriminatory treatment," including bans on US alcohol sales in most of the country, which began in early 2025 in response to Trump's initial tariff threats. US producers report significant sales impacts, with imports down approximately 81% year-on-year, according to the White House.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew confirmed Carney's request for provinces to restock US alcohol. Kinew encouraged continued boycotts of US products, urging Canadians to "buy the Canadian stuff instead." He expressed respect for Carney's stance against Trump but believed Canada should "fight" and that Trump is "weak."