In a recent Time Magazine article discussing strained U.S. relations with other nations, a purported quote from Canadian satire website The Beaverton was mistakenly included as factual information.
The article, published on Oct. 1, contained a segment referring to U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra’s participation at an event held by the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. During the event, Hoekstra expressed disappointment regarding the anti-American sentiments emerging in Canada due to President Donald Trump’s tariffs and remarks about Canada potentially becoming the 51st state.
Time Magazine quoted Hoekstra as saying, “‘A Canada that it would be very easy to target with 500% steel tariffs, or one patriot missile aimed at Parliament Hill,’ he added, rather incredulously.” However, this statement was fabricated by The Beaverton in an article titled, “US Ambassador threatens to tariff, annex, and bomb Canada if anti-American sentiment doesn’t improve,” as confirmed by Hoekstra’s team to CBC News.
Ariel Pollock, the spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa, clarified in an email that the quote attributed to Ambassador Hoekstra by Time Magazine was entirely false. The Beaverton’s Ian MacIntyre also affirmed to CBC News that it was a concocted quote.
Following inquiries from CBC News, Time Magazine issued a correction on Friday, acknowledging the error of attributing the satirical quote to Pete Hoekstra. MacIntyre explained that his article was inspired by Hoekstra’s controversial statements, although the fabricated content, including the mention of targeting Parliament Hill with a missile, was meant for comedic effect.
During the Halifax Chamber of Commerce event, Hoekstra repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction with Canadian views toward the U.S., emphasizing his disappointment in the lack of enthusiasm for the American-Canadian relationship among Canadians. MacIntyre clarified that his intention was to exaggerate Hoekstra’s remarks to absurd levels, including the fictitious Patriot missile comment.
The Beaverton operates as a parody publication, and MacIntyre emphasized that their aim is not to deceive readers with fake news but to provide satirical content. He expressed surprise at anyone mistaking their material for reality, especially considering their satirical nature.