The USA Presidential Election results and how does it impact Canada?

Now that Donald Trump has been elected as United States president again, several areas of U.S.-Canada relations could be impacted, particularly given his previous policies and political approach. The following are some potential areas of influence:

Trade Relations and Economic Policy

USMCA Agreement

Under Trump, the U.S.Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) replaced NAFTA, with new terms that benefited the U.S. in certain areas but posed challenges for Canada, especially in the dairy and pharmaceutical sectors. When Trump returns to office, he might push for further renegotiations or impose new tariffs to prioritize American industries, potentially affecting Canadian exporters.

Protectionism

The Trump Administration's “America First” stance encouraged tariffs and other protectionist measures to boost U.S. manufacturing. His previous tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium created tension, and he could implement similar policies, which could hurt Canadian industries reliant on U.S. trade.

Energy and Environmental Policy

Keystone XL Pipeline

Trump supported the Keystone XL pipeline, intended to carry Canadian crude oil to U.S. markets. Biden later revoked this permit, but Trump could reverse this decision, potentially benefiting Canada’s oil sector. However, environmental opposition would likely continue, raising questions around sustainable energy investment and Indigenous land rights.

Environmental Standards

Donald Trump previously withdrew from the Paris Climate Agreement, emphasizing fossil fuel production over renewable energy. A return to this approach could reduce U.S. climate initiatives, complicating collaborative efforts on cross border pollution, clean energy, and emissions reduction.

Defence and Security Cooperation

NATO and Defence Spending

The newly reelected President's critical stance on NATO spending requirements strained relationships with allied nations, including Canada. If he were to push for increased financial contributions or threaten to reduce U.S. support, Canada might face pressure to increase its defence spending, impacting its national budget and defence policies.

Border Security

During Trump’s previous term, border security was a priority, and he implemented strict immigration policies. This focus could affect Canada-U.S. border policies, including collaboration on issues like asylum seeking and the U.S.-Canada Safe Third Country Agreement. Tighter restrictions could complicate cross border movement for both countries’ citizens and businesses.

Political and Diplomatic Relations

Bilateral Diplomacy

Trump’s direct and transactional style could lead to less predictability in Canada-U.S. relations. Canada’s approach is traditionally collaborative, and while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Trump maintained a working relationship, Trump’s unconventional diplomacy could complicate efforts on cooperative projects or shared policies, especially on issues like international trade, human rights, and climate initiatives.

Public Opinion and Polarization

The influence on Canadian politics and public opinion could grow. His polarizing style could amplify political divisions within Canada, particularly among conservative groups supportive of Trump’s policies, potentially affecting Canada’s own political landscape and influencing future elections.

Immigration and Workforce Mobility

Immigration Policies

His strict stance on immigration affected Canadian employers who relied on skilled foreign workers, as policies limited H1B visa access and led to a decline in international talent in the U.S. Should Trump resume these policies, Canada might benefit from a “brain gain,” attracting skilled workers who prefer Canada’s immigration policies. However, restrictions on crossborder travel or student exchanges could hinder workforce mobility and joint research initiatives.

Another Trump presidency could bring both challenges and opportunities for Canada, likely leading to greater economic protectionism, potential strains on environmental cooperation, and impacts on immigration and border policies. Canada would need to navigate these shifts carefully, potentially reevaluating its policies to safeguard its economic and political interests while managing a complex relationship with its closest neighbour. 

Now, what can you do to stay politically vigilant? 

The political landscape of the United States often commands global attention, and with its proximity and intertwined economies, Canada is particularly affected by its neighbour’s political shifts. Even though Canadians don’t vote in U.S. elections, the outcomes of these elections can have significant effects on Canadian policies, economy, and social issues. From changes in trade policy to climate action, shifts in the U.S. often ripple across the border, impacting Canadian interests. After each U.S. federal election, Canadians can maintain political vigilance by staying informed, advocating for responsible policy, and fostering meaningful public discussions.

1. Stay Informed with Reputable Sources

It’s essential to seek reliable news sources to stay updated on U.S. policy changes that may affect Canada. Trusted outlets like CBC, Global News, and The Globe and Mail often provide coverage and analysis of U.S. events, interpreting them from a Canadian perspective. Staying informed on current affairs allows Canadians to understand how American policies might influence Canadian issues, such as cross border trade, environmental agreements, and immigration.

American news coverage can be overwhelming, especially during election cycles, as major networks and social media sites often prioritize U.S. political developments. However, Canadians can avoid media fatigue by carefully choosing reliable news sources that focus on delivering balanced perspectives. Seeking out international sections in Canadian publications, rather than relying solely on U.S. outlets, can help maintain an informed perspective while filtering out the sensationalism that can sometimes dominate American media.

2. Participate in Canadian Political Discourse

Engaging with Canadian politics is one of the most effective ways to ensure Canadian policies reflect public sentiment, rather than following U.S. trends that might not align with Canadian values. For instance, the U.S. takes a notably different approach to healthcare and gun control compared to Canada. Discussing these issues with friends, family, or colleagues—and even at community meetings or in online forums—encourages critical thinking and can bring Canadian perspectives to the forefront. Additionally, participating in events like town halls or constituency meetings with MPs provides an opportunity for Canadians to voice their concerns and learn about elected officials' stances on key issues.

The influence of American policy can also prompt discussions around Canada’s own approaches. For instance, climate action is often a critical point of comparison between the two countries. When the U.S. makes significant strides (or regressions) in environmental policy, it can serve as a catalyst for Canadian discourse, pushing for stronger domestic policies on climate resilience, carbon reduction, and green infrastructure.

3. Advocate for Transparent Canadian Policies

While staying informed and engaged is important, advocacy plays a vital role in Canadian political vigilance. By voicing opinions on specific policy concerns that might be impacted by U.S. developments, Canadians can help guide their country’s response to these changes. Writing letters to local Members of Parliament, participating in advocacy groups, or joining campaigns focused on issues like healthcare, climate change, or international trade can hold Canadian officials accountable.

For example, if U.S. policies on environmental protection or energy development undergo drastic changes, it’s crucial for Canadians to hold their government accountable to Canada’s own climate commitments. Advocacy can pressure Canadian leaders to stand firm on agreements like the Paris Climate Accord, even if the U.S. decides to backtrack. Likewise, if the U.S. pursues trade policies that could impact Canadian exports, such as tariffs or revised trade deals, advocacy can emphasize the need for Canada to protect its economic interests.

4. Promote Civic Education and Political Literacy

Political literacy is essential for Canadians to critically evaluate both U.S. and Canadian policies. Understanding the differences and similarities in government structures and policy processes enables Canadians to better grasp how U.S. decisions might impact them. For instance, while Canada’s parliamentary system is distinct from the American presidential system, certain policies—such as trade agreements and environmental accords—require cooperation between the two nations. Civic education can demystify these processes, helping Canadians see how both systems interact.

Schools, community centres, and even online platforms can be valuable resources for increasing political literacy. By fostering a strong understanding of governance, Canadians of all ages can engage more meaningfully with current affairs, making it easier to navigate the complexities of cross border politics.

5. Be Mindful of Media Influence

While staying informed is essential, it’s equally important to recognize how U.S.centered media can overshadow Canadian news and influence public perceptions. During U.S. election cycles, Canadian media often mirrors the intensity of U.S. coverage, which can create a tendency to prioritize American issues over domestic ones. This shift can draw attention away from important Canadian issues, such as Indigenous rights, healthcare reform, and economic policy.

To counteract this, Canadians can make a conscious effort to stay updated on Canadian news, particularly when U.S. media dominates the news cycle. Seeking out Canadian-focused publications, engaging with local news networks, and discussing these issues within one’s community can help balance the focus, ensuring that Canadian concerns receive the attention they deserve.

6. Foster Open and Respectful Political Discussions

The politically charged atmosphere in the U.S. can sometimes spill over into Canadian discourse, leading to heightened emotions and polarized viewpoints. Engaging in respectful discussions about U.S. politics and their potential impact on Canada can provide insights without generating conflict. Canadians can use these conversations to explore their own political beliefs and understand differing perspectives, which is valuable in a multicultural society.

Social media can be a double-edged sword in this regard, amplifying both constructive discussions and polarizing opinions. Setting personal boundaries around political discussions and avoiding unproductive arguments can help maintain a balanced approach. Canadians can benefit from focusing on solutions rather than divisions, particularly when it comes to cross border issues that affect both countries.

In summary, Canadians don’t have a direct say in U.S. elections, but they can remain vigilant by staying informed, advocating for transparent policies, and engaging thoughtfully with the political implications that may arise. By fostering a politically aware and engaged society, Canadians can safeguard their own values while understanding the influence of their southern neighbour. The interconnected nature of the two nations highlights the importance of Canadian political vigilance—and the role each citizen can play in shaping the future.