Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed the prospect of Democrats repealing U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canada, suggesting that a restoration of free trade would lower costs for American families and benefit U.S. workers. Carney made the remarks Friday, even as Ottawa continues negotiations with Washington.
"We welcome any moves to restore a free trading arrangement between Canada and the United States, which is in the interests of American families struggling with affordability," Carney told reporters in Winnipeg. He added that free trade would also benefit American workers seeking well-paying jobs and stability.
The recent Democratic midterm victory presents Canada with a strategic choice: accept a deal that reduces Trump's tariffs but leaves some in place, or hold out for a complete restoration of free trade as the incoming Congress prepares to challenge existing duties.
Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden, who is set to lead the Senate Finance Committee, has identified Trump's tariffs on Canada as an early target for repeal. Additionally, Michigan Sen.-elect Abdul El-Sayed, a Democrat, expressed willingness to work on "stopping these stupid tariffs with Canada." Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer had previously introduced legislation in September aimed at repealing Trump's tariffs, including those imposed on Canadian goods.
Carney stated he had not yet spoken with Wyden or other Democrats regarding potential legislation to eliminate the tariffs. Trump retains significant authority over trade policy and could veto such legislation. Overriding a veto would require substantial Republican support.
Canada suspended trade talks in August, citing U.S. demands that it said threatened Canadian sovereignty and French-language protections. Trump's trade actions have included 50% tariffs on billions of dollars in Canadian goods, prompting retaliatory measures from Canada.
Trump has previously suggested Canada should join the U.S. as its 51st state and has advocated for moving Canadian automobile production to the United States. He also threatened new tariffs on Canadian automobiles beginning in January, adding pressure to Canada's auto industry as it weighs its negotiating strategy.
Relations have shown recent signs of improvement. Trump indicated Sunday that the countries were "very close" to an agreement, while Carney stated Tuesday that Washington had stepped back from demands concerning Canada's French-language protections, cultural policies, and its ability to negotiate trade agreements with other countries.