In a recent column, Sun political commentator Brian Lilley has taken a firm stance against what he describes as the Canadian media's "alarmist" and "embarrassing" coverage of former and potentially future U.S. President Donald Trump.
Columnist Calls Out Fear-Based Reporting
Lilley's critique, titled "Enough with the elbows up fear factory," argues that many Canadian news outlets are engaging in sensationalist and overly fearful reporting regarding Trump's political activities. The column was published by Postmedia News on January 8, 2026. Lilley suggests this approach does a disservice to the Canadian public, who deserve factual and balanced reporting on international affairs, particularly concerning their influential southern neighbour.
Context of Trump's Ongoing Political Influence
The commentary comes amidst ongoing political maneuvers by Trump, who was pictured addressing House Republican lawmakers at their annual policy retreat in Washington on January 6, 2026. His continued prominence on the American political stage ensures he remains a significant figure in cross-border news coverage. Lilley contends that instead of sober analysis, much of the Canadian media's response has devolved into creating a "fear factory" narrative.
Engagement and Reader Participation Encouraged
The Toronto Sun is actively seeking reader engagement on this topic. The publication has invited audiences to share their thoughts in the comment section or submit a Letter to the Editor for potential publication. Letters must be 250 words or less and include the author's signature. Submissions can be sent to torsun.editor@sunmedia.ca. Readers are also encouraged to subscribe to the newspaper's YouTube channel for further video commentary and analysis.
This call for reader input underscores the media's role in facilitating public discourse on how international politics, especially American figures like Donald Trump, are portrayed to Canadian audiences. Lilley's column serves as a direct challenge to his peers in the journalism industry to elevate their standards when covering complex and polarizing subjects.
