Obama mocks Trump tariff war with Canada at Detroit rally Former President Barack Obama criticized President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canadian goods during a campaign rally in Detroit, joking about Canada as a well-known evil empire while addressing the impact on Michigan's auto industry. Former President Barack Obama criticized President Donald Trump's tariff war with Canada during a campaign rally in Detroit, Michigan, on Saturday, October 24, 2026, speaking ahead of next month's U.S. mid-term elections. Obama mocked the tariffs while jokingly calling Canada a well-known evil empire and noting it as the home of Martin Short and maple syrup. The rally took place at Cass Technical High School. Obama said Trump has upset Canadians through his abuse of the country and talks of making it the 51st state. He highlighted that the impacts of the tariffs are particularly evident in Michigan, where auto industry supply chains are deeply integrated with Canada.Carney Imposes Counter-Tariffs Against TrumpAutomakers have long said tariffs increase production costs. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney imposed dollar-for-dollar counter-tariffs in September after Trump established 50 per cent tariffs on billions of dollars in Canadian goods, including motor vehicles. Trump says he will lift some of those 50 per cent tariffs at the end of the month, while adding tariffs to dozens of new products, including Canadian garbage and sewage.The event featured Obama speaking to supporters, with the Associated Press photo by Paul Sancya showing him at the rally. The speech came as part of efforts to support Democrats before the mid-term elections. Obama's remarks focused on the economic and political tensions between the U.S. and Canada under Trump's policies. The former president's comments reflect ongoing concerns about the tariff war's effects on Michigan's economy, given its close ties to the Canadian auto industry.Trump Plans Mixed Tariff AdjustmentsThe rally was one of several campaign events aimed at mobilizing voters. Obama's criticism of Trump's approach to Canada underscores the broader debate over trade policies and their consequences for American workers and businesses. Trump's planned tariff adjustments at the end of the month include lifting some tariffs while imposing new ones on items like Canadian garbage and sewage. This mixed approach has drawn criticism from opponents who argue it harms relations with a key ally.The mid-term elections are expected to be a referendum on Trump's policies, including his trade agenda.