CBC News got exclusive access to the Canadian lobbying effort on Capitol Hill to ensure that a transition goes smoothly if former U.S. president Donald Trump returns to the White House, especially because of the challenges expected in light of his America First policy.

Ottawa

The 2024 United States presidential election, expected to be between Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump is set to take place this November. 

U.S. Presidential Election

Canada is gearing up for the possibility of Donald Trump returning to the presidency in the United States, a move that has prompted a proactive approach from Canadian officials. CBC News has reported that Canadian lobbyists are actively working on Capitol Hill to facilitate a smooth transition, should Trump reclaim the White House. This preparation phase underscores Canada's concerns regarding the anticipated challenges that could arise from Trump's "America First" policy, which was a hallmark of his previous tenure.

The lobbying effort appears to be a strategic measure by Canada to safeguard its interests and ensure bilateral relations remain stable in the event of Trump's return. The focus on a seamless transition indicates the significance Canada places on maintaining a functional and cooperative relationship with the U.S., especially given the complexities expected from the reinstatement of the "America First" policy. This policy, during Trump's past presidency, led to renegotiations of trade agreements and heightened tensions on various fronts, influencing Canada's current approach.



Canada prepares for potential Trump return

Republican Senator Ted Cruz has enthusiastically endorsed Donald Trump for president. And that's part of the reason why Canada's ambassador wants to get in his ear. Over the past week she and her team of diplomats met with dozens of U.S. lawmakers from both parties. So Canada is prepared to work with whoever wins the next U.S. election. We're trying to sort of flood the hill if I can be honest about it. Another Trump term would come with uncertainty. His America first plan to boost U.S. manufacturing could upend global trade by imposing a new 10 percent tariff on all imported goods. Canada should be exempt under the renegotiated North American free trade agreement says the ambassador who will point to Trump's own words to defend it. He himself says it's the best deal ever right and continues to this day to say that this isn't a very the best deal that's ever been negotiated by the United States. As Canadians stressed the importance of the relationship at a series of charm offensive gatherings politics back home may undercut these efforts. Fake news. Fake news. The left-wing censorship regime. Their woke censorship ideology. The Liberals have released an online attack ad negatively comparing Trump and Conservative leader Pierre Polyev. Trump is known to be thin-skinned. He recently vowed to have Australia's ambassador to the U.S. removed over his public criticism of Trump. He won't be there long if that's the case. I don't know much about him. I heard he was a little bit nasty. Trump's place in Canadian politics hasn't resonated in the U.S. yet and some of Trump's allies brushed off concern. I know Donald Trump very well and he's a very secure man. He's a very confident guy and he may weigh in on some things but he doesn't hold long grudges. All of that is part of Trump's unpredictable nature that Canada is trying to prepare for in case he returns to the White House. Katie Simpson, CBC News, Washington.

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