Pull-String President
Wednesday May 7, 2025
We've finally moved past a significant chapter in Canada-U.S. relations, a period that has stressed Canadians since Donald Trump's election. The awkward Mar-a-Lago dinner with former Prime Minister Trudeau kicked off six months of challenges, with Canadian leaders repeatedly visiting Washington, trying to manage the fallout from Trump's remarks.
Trump's influence affected Canadian politics at both the provincial and federal levels. But now, we've seen a more respectful meeting between two state leaders. In this recent White House encounter, there were no insults or awkward moments. Mark Carney did what was needed: he respected the U.S. President, charmed him, and clearly stated that Canada will never be the 51st state. Trump, meanwhile, expressed his wish for America to make its own cars, showing where his interests lie.
News: Carney tells Trump Canada is not for sale, president praises PM as a 'very good person'
During the meeting, Trump praised Carney's election win and spoke of friendship between the countries, despite ongoing trade issues. Carney kept things positive, emphasizing shared goals, even though there was no progress on trade talks.
With this phase behind us, Carney can now focus on new opportunities for Canada beyond its usual reliance on the U.S. He's told Canadians it won't be easy, but there's hope that with his leadership, the country will find new paths and opportunities.
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Carney played the game well with restrained politeness for the camera. My hunch is that Trump was informed about Carney's vast professional experience and education. With a bachelor's in economics from Harvard plus a master's and a PhD from Oxford, Trump was advised not to duke it out with him. Carney could have taken him on Gordie Howe style or Jean Beliveau style. He chose the latter. He scored.