The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge Moore Butts #26 -- The Trump, Carney, Ford Mess
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Oct 28, 2025 
Gerald Butts, former advisor to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and James Moore, ex-Conservative cabinet minister, dive into the complex dynamics of Trump, Carney, and Ford's political maneuvers. They discuss Doug Ford's controversial ad and its implications on U.S.-Canada relations, examining Trump's unpredictable nature. The conversation shifts to the urgent need for fiscal reform, addressing rising debt and spending concerns in Canada. Both highlight the political challenges facing bold budgetary actions while stressing the importance of balancing programs with tax levels.
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Calm Diplomacy Beats Performative Outrage
- Justin Trudeau's calm, non-emotional response set an appropriate diplomatic tone amid the Ford-Trump controversy.
- James Moore warns the Trump presidency will produce unpredictable "spasms" that require steady long-game responses.
Measured Responses Reduce Lasting Damage
- Mark Carney acted as the adult in the room by responding measuredly rather than theatrically.
- Gerald Butts expects the Ford ad will create noise but not lasting damage to negotiations.
Trump's Short Fuse And Long Memory Mix Uneasily
- Donald Trump lacks a long memory for incidental slights but can permanently cut off individuals he dislikes.
- Moore and Butts note Trump’s unpredictability makes performative attacks risky.