US Embassy Accuses Canada of Election Meddling Ahead of Midterms
Ottawa dismisses claims, pointing to US-initiated trade actions as catalyst for Canadian responses.
The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa has accused Canadian officials of election meddling in the lead-up to the November midterm elections. According to a fact sheet released by the embassy, Canadian leaders have allegedly brushed off concerns regarding potential interference and have openly discussed plans to influence American politics in official documents and public appearances.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has dismissed these allegations, stating that it was the United States that initially initiated trade actions against Canada. "We've responded to those to protect Canadian jobs, to protect Canadian companies and develop our economy," Carney said. He added that his government's actions have been "in the interests of Canadian workers, Canadian families and the future of this economy."
Carney made these remarks while announcing a nearly C$9 billion aid package in response to U.S. tariffs. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly and Ontario Premier Doug Ford were present at the announcement.
The embassy's fact sheet cites specific instances, including comments from Industry Minister Joly. When questioned about potential tariffs should Democrats win the midterm elections, Joly reportedly stated, "That's exactly why I'm meeting so many governors and potential presidential candidates." The document also mentions Ontario Premier Doug Ford pushing the federal government to consider additional retaliatory tariffs on imports from "politically significant states to the current administration's base of support."
Premier Ford stated that he has "no interest at all" in interfering in U.S. elections and that his focus remains on Ontario and Canada. He emphasized that the American people will make their own decisions in the midterms.
Minister Joly also previously denied Canadian interference, asserting that Canadians "never accept that also being done to us in Canada." She clarified that her recent visits to the U.S. were intended to attract investments from American companies, a practice she plans to continue.
The midterm elections will determine which political party controls both chambers of the U.S. Congress, a result that could significantly impact the remainder of Donald Trump's presidency.