‘Buckle up’ for a second Trump presidency, former U.S. ambassador tells Canada

As the world anxiously awaits the outcome of the U.S. presidential election, Kelly Craft, the former ambassador to Canada under Donald Trump’s administration, is warning that Canada should brace itself for a potentially more antagonistic relationship with the U.S. if Trump wins a second term. Craft emphasized that Trump’s focus on boosting American manufacturing and pressuring NATO allies to increase defense spending would require Canada to make some policy changes to maintain a positive relationship with the U.S.

Craft stated, “Canada, they need to buckle up. The whole world needs to buckle up because President Trump will continue his policies from 2016. We are going to make America great again, and we will be bringing it back to where it was under the Trump presidency.” She pointed to the first four years of Trump’s presidency as a preview of what could lie ahead if he is re-elected.

With the U.S. election polling showing a close race, Canada is on edge about the implications for the trillion-dollar bilateral trade relationship. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland expressed confidence that Canada would thrive regardless of the election outcome, emphasizing the importance of the U.S. relationship to Canada’s economy.

Experts agree that a Trump victory would likely lead to renewed disputes over trade with Canada. Trump has promised to impose a minimum 10% tariff on all imports, which could have significant repercussions for Canadian businesses and the economy. Additionally, Trump has criticized Canada’s supply management system in the dairy, egg, and poultry sectors, suggesting that he may push for changes in future trade negotiations.

To prepare for the possibility of a second Trump presidency, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has appointed ministers to focus on Canada-U.S. relations and build alliances with American lawmakers. This proactive approach aims to ensure that Canada is well-positioned to navigate any challenges that may arise in the event of a Trump re-election.

Craft also suggested that Trump may seek Canada’s assistance in addressing the migrant crisis at the U.S. southern border and push for increased defense spending to meet NATO targets. She emphasized the importance of Canada aligning its policies with U.S. priorities to maintain a strong bilateral relationship.

Regardless of the election outcome, Canada remains committed to defending its interests and supporting Canadian businesses. As the world watches the U.S. election unfold, Canada is preparing for potential shifts in its relationship with its southern neighbor and the implications for trade and security cooperation.