Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met with former US President Barack Obama at a progressive think-tank gala in Toronto, where Obama delivered a keynote address. A video capturing the handshake between the two leaders has ignited a wave of conspiracy theories among allies of Donald Trump.
Allegations of a 'Coup' and Logan Act Violations
Some of Donald Trump's staunchest supporters labelled the interaction a 'coup' or suggested it violated the Logan Act, a 1799 law that prohibits unauthorised citizens from negotiating with foreign governments. These accusations come amid already strained US-Canada relations, exacerbated by ongoing trade disputes.
Historical Context of Tensions
The Trump administration has previously accused Obama of 'treasonous' behaviour, and this meeting has reignited those claims. Obama recently revealed that responding to certain policy decisions by Donald Trump has created tension within his own marriage, adding a personal dimension to the political fallout.
Despite the backlash, the meeting between Obama and Carney appears to have been a routine engagement at a progressive event, with no evidence of any clandestine negotiations. The conspiracy theories, however, underscore the deep partisan divides that continue to characterise US politics.
