Queen's Park Observer

Queen's Park Observer

Reagan, thongs and a full-frontal bromance

Plus: PO's Star Staffers

Sabrina Nanji's avatar
Sabrina Nanji
Nov 05, 2025
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ABOVE THE FOLD

NOT A BREAKUP, JUST A TARIFF TIFF — DOUG FORD insists things are peachy with MARK CARNEY despite the Reagan-ad drama that sent DONALD TRUMP storming off from trade talks.

Speaking to reporters Tuesday, the Premier brushed off any suggestion of friction with the Prime Minister, saying their relationship is still going “strong” and capitulating on foreign policy, noting “he’s the prime minister, I’m the premier.”

“When it comes to national issues, making a deal with the U.S. and anyone else — that falls on his lap.”

While Carney apologized to Trump for the ad, Ford’s got no regrets, calling the 60-second spot a global hit that garnered 12 billion impressions. Leaning into his role as populist defender of Ontario seems to be working for Ford public-opinion wise, even if it complicates Ottawa’s diplomatic efforts.

Still, the optics of duelling stances — Ford doubling down and Carney saying sorry — underscore how easily Ford’s brand of retail…

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