Leaked audio from a private event has reportedly captured US Vice-President JD Vance mocking Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney over trade negotiations. The recording, reportedly made at a fundraiser and shared with the Canadian Press, comes during a period of difficult negotiations where the US president has threatened 50% tariffs on Canada.
In the audio, Vance is heard telling supporters in Southampton, New York, that Carney is a “very sweet guy” but also that he “comes in and puffs his chest out and says, ‘I’m going to, like, out-tough Donald Trump’.” According to the Canadian Press, Vance also stated, “It’s hilarious because Carney presents this as some victory for Canada when fundamentally, like, they climb down on a lot of issues.”
The White House stated in July that the 50% tariffs were in response to “discriminatory treatment” by Canada, including bans on US alcohol sales in eight out of 10 provinces and all three territories. This Canadian response in early 2025 followed earlier tariff threats from the US president. US producers have reported a significant impact on sales, with Canadian imports of US alcohol down approximately 81% year-on-year, according to the White House.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston confirmed this week that Prime Minister Carney has asked provinces to allow US alcohol sales again. Kinew commented on Thursday, “I wouldn’t say [Carney] was begging us, but what is a step before begging?” He also encouraged Canadians to continue boycotting US products, stating, “If we put the booze back on the shelves, don’t buy it…buy the Canadian stuff instead.”