Carney Urged to Press Trump in Trade Talks as Approval Gap Reaches 40 Points

3 articles · Updated · The Globe and Mail · Aug 15

Mark Carney should harden Canada’s line in U.S. trade talks, the column argues, because he enters negotiations with a majority government, roughly 20% net approval and broad public backing against concessions.
Trump’s weaker hand rests on a slowing U.S. economy, flat employment, falling real wages and a net approval rating near -20%, with voters increasingly blaming tariffs and inflation for their pain.
Less than 100 days before a major U.S. electoral test, betting markets reportedly see the House likely flipping to Democrats while the Senate has tightened to a coin toss, increasing pressure on Trump to deliver relief.
Canada, by contrast, is described as more resilient: growth revived in May and June, real wages remain positive, inflation and borrowing costs are lower, and its stock market is outperforming the U.S.
The piece frames the trade standoff as part of a lasting global “rupture,” arguing Ottawa should use this moment not just to bargain harder with Washington but to prepare Canada for a more self-reliant post-U.S.-led order.