Maple Leaf Beat — Afternoon Audio Brief · 2026-10-26

Afternoon audio brief for Monday, October 26, 2026 — tap play above to listen with slides and subtitles. Washington is signalling a possible end to the trade war, the Bank of Canada is on deck for a rate decision, and Toronto's mayoral race is coming down to the wire. Here's what happened:

Trump says he expects trade war with Canada to end 'pretty soon'

President Donald Trump says he expects his trade war with Canada to end "pretty soon" — the clearest signal yet of a possible thaw. On Friday, Trump announced he would lift some of the 50 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods at the end of the month, even as new duties were tacked onto dozens of other categories. Any relief would be welcome news for Canadian exporters who have spent months absorbing the cost. Sources tell CTV News that Canada–U.S. talks are "gathering momentum," with White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett saying the two sides are close to a deal.

Bank of Canada expected to hike rate on Wednesday

The Bank of Canada is widely expected to raise its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points at its decision on Wednesday. Economists frame the move as pre-emptive — an attempt to stop energy-led inflation from spilling over into the broader economy before it takes hold. A hike would mean pricier mortgages and loans for households nationwide, and it would mark a pivotal turn for policymakers who have been balancing inflation pressure against growth. Markets will be watching Wednesday's statement for any hint of how far rates might still climb.

U.S. officials accuse Canada of midterm meddling

U.S. officials have accused Canada of meddling in the upcoming American midterm elections — allegations Prime Minister Mark Carney says have no merit. The friction prompted Ottawa to instruct Canadian diplomats in the United States to avoid meetings, events and photos with candidates or campaigns. As CBC notes, the accusation lands awkwardly given Trump's own record of endorsing foreign candidates. A U.S. ambassador has since softened the tone of the claims, but the dispute adds a fresh irritant just as trade talks appear to be gaining traction.

Alberta referendum tallies reveal rural-urban divide on 'the 9'

Alberta's referendum ballot count is wrapping up, and the unofficial results point to a province split along rural-urban lines. Elections Alberta says the unofficial count is complete, with rural voters and urban centres appearing to land on opposite sides of the question known as "the 9." The divide underscores how differently the issue plays in the countryside versus the cities — and the interpretation challenge it hands Premier Danielle Smith's government. The official count will determine what comes next.

Former deputy mayor under Olivia Chow endorses Brad Bradford

Toronto's mayoral race is heading to a photo finish — with a late twist. A former deputy mayor who served under Olivia Chow from 2022 to 2025 has crossed the aisle to endorse her rival, Brad Bradford. The endorsement hands Bradford a symbolic boost from inside Chow's own former leadership team, as polls suggest the two are separated by a razor-thin margin. With the campaign in its final stretch, the direction of Canada's largest city hangs on a handful of votes.

Scarborough's Eric Bauza, modern voice of Bugs Bunny, dead at 46

Eric Bauza, the Scarborough-raised, Emmy-winning voice actor best known as the modern voice of Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, has died at 46. The Canadian-born performer lent his talents to a whole roster of Looney Tunes icons and countless other animated characters over a celebrated career. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and fans around the world. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter spanning generations of viewers.

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Supporting coverage:

Maple Leaf Beat Audio · 2026-10-26 · afternoon · Narrated edition, compiled from CTV News, CBC News, Yahoo Finance Canada and Toronto Sun.