Strategic Planning Ahead of U.S. Election

As the U.S. presidential election approached, Canadian officials were actively strategizing to seize new opportunities for collaboration with their southern neighbor in key areas such as nuclear energy, supply chain security, and carbon capture technologies—regardless of the election outcome, according to recently released government memos.

These internal documents, acquired through Canada’s Access to Information Act, reveal an ambitious plan by Global Affairs Canada to not only maintain but also enhance Canada-U.S. relations. One memo highlighted the commitment to ensure that the partnership would be 'broadened and deepened' over the years ahead, independent of the political shift in the U.S.

Diplomatic Initiatives by Canadian Leadership

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized this diplomatic initiative in January, designating Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne and Trade Minister Mary Ng to collaborate with Canadian Ambassador to the U.S., Kirsten Hillman, for a cohesive 'Team Canada' approach to safeguard national interests in Washington.

'We aim to lock in the progress achieved since 2020 and prepare for all outcomes,' stated a briefing from January. The memo elaborated on plans to establish a robust network of contacts at both federal and state levels in the U.S. to foster better insights and influence on policy matters that are critical to Canadian interests. The strategy included a concerted effort to advocate for Canada’s priorities across various political aisles in the U.S.

Building Connections and Coalitions

Hillman noted that before the election, she, Champagne, and Ng had met with numerous governors, mayors, senators, trade officials, business leaders, and labor unions, building a widespread coalition to promote Canadian interests as the election unpredictably loomed.

Preparing for Potential Challenges

With Donald Trump potentially returning to the White House, Canadian officials were preparing to face the fallout of heightened protectionist sentiments, including his threats of a 25 percent tariff on Canadian goods unless Canada took more stringent border control measures. The memos reflected a proactive stance, aiming to manage consequences that could arise from a Trump presidency, detailing strategies to monitor shifts in U.S. policy concerning multilateral organizations like NATO and the G7.

Reviving Multilateral Alliances

Amongst the discussions were considerations for a revival of alliances for promoting multilateralism similar to those seen during Trump’s first term, especially with key European partners like Germany and France. A memo prepared ahead of a May meeting with EU officials indicated a desire to collaborate on shared global challenges, such as climate change and industrial policies, in light of a potentially new U.S. administration.

Positioning Canada for the Future

The internal notes also prompted Canadian officials to explore how the country could enhance its position as a central ally to the U.S. A focus was placed on identifying areas for improvement within the existing Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade agreement and examining the expected immigration policies that a potential Trump administration might pursue.

Commitment to a Proactive Approach

Overall, as Canada navigated the unprecedented political polarization in the U.S.—marked by stark Republican and Democratic divides—officials remained committed to a 'deliberate and proactive' approach to position Canada favorably in all possible election outcomes. 'Irrespective of the outcome, the election may present new avenues for Canada, including collaboration focused on nuclear energy, supply chains, and innovative technologies like carbon capture,' concluded the memos.

In a world of political unpredictability, Canada appears poised to adapt and thrive, potentially paving the way for fruitful dialogues and partnerships in the years to come.