Trump, Carney Optimistic on Trade Deal | Radio Balance of Power: Early Edition 8/19/2026

Summary

The episode covers U.S.-Canada trade negotiations after the 50% Canadian tariff pause, the Treasury's expanded long-end buyback program and bond market implications, and geopolitical energy risk from the U.S.-Iran standoff over the Strait of Hormuz. It also examines primary results in Florida, Alaska, and South Carolina before turning to Chris Christie's criticism of prediction markets and his views on data center energy costs.

• President Trump pauses threatened 50% tariffs on Canada as U.S.-Canada trade talks continue.
• Treasury doubles liquidity-support buybacks for 10-30 year securities to rein in long-term borrowing costs.
• Bloomberg Intelligence rates strategist Ira argues the buyback move is technical, not a fundamental fix.
• Daniel Fried expects no near-term Iran deal, keeping Strait of Hormuz energy supply risk alive.
• Florida, Alaska, and South Carolina primary politics are analyzed for November implications.
• Chris Christie argues prediction markets are illegal sportsbooks that should not get CFTC cover.
• Data center expansion is framed by Christie as principally an energy cost issue for states.