Story perspectives

Doug Ford’s Trump Feud Lifts Approval 12 Points

9/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Doug Ford attacked U.S. President Donald Trump over talks, calling him a “king of bankruptcies” and a “loser.”
Trump responded that Ford is a “flunky” of Prime Minister Mark Carney.
A Liaison Strategies poll showed Ford’s approval rose 12 points after the exchange.
Byelections in Scarborough Southwest, York-Simcoe and Hamilton East-Stoney Creek occur Thursday.
Analysts say the feud could boost Progressive Conservative support in Hamilton, though impact may be marginal.

History

Historical Context

Bill Clinton’s victory over incumbent George H. W. Bush in the November 3, 1992 U.S. presidential election provides a historical precedent for how personal attacks can affect voter sentiment, a pattern echoed today as Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s criticism of Donald Trump lifted his approval before the Hamilton byelection, highlighting a lasting North-American campaign strategy.

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Story summary

Doug Ford attacked U.S. President Donald Trump over talks, calling him a “king of bankruptcies” and a “loser.”
Trump responded that Ford is a “flunky” of Prime Minister Mark Carney.
A Liaison Strategies poll showed Ford’s approval rose 12 points after the exchange.
Byelections in Scarborough Southwest, York-Simcoe and Hamilton East-Stoney Creek occur Thursday.
Analysts say the feud could boost Progressive Conservative support in Hamilton, though impact may be marginal.

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