The United States Embassy in Ottawa has accused Canadian political leaders of attempting to influence American domestic politics ahead of the November midterm elections, escalating tensions between the two neighbouring countries over trade disputes and retaliatory measures.
In a fact sheet released on Wednesday, the embassy alleged that Canadian ministers and provincial premiers had openly discussed plans to influence American politics through official documents and public statements, despite dismissing concerns about possible interference in US elections.
The allegations centre on Canadian officials’ engagements with American Democratic politicians and calls for retaliatory tariffs targeting imports from the United States.
The embassy cited comments by Canada’s Industry Minister, Mélanie Joly, who reportedly linked her meetings with US governors and potential presidential candidates to questions about the possible outcome of the midterm elections.
According to the fact sheet, Joly was asked what she expected regarding tariffs if Democrats won the elections and responded: “That’s exactly why I’m meeting so many governors and potential presidential candidates.”
The embassy also pointed to Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s call for Canada’s federal government to consider additional retaliatory tariffs on imports from politically significant US states that support President Donald Trump’s administration.
However, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has rejected the criticism, arguing that Ottawa’s actions are a response to trade measures initiated by Washington.
Speaking on Wednesday while announcing an aid package worth nearly C$9 billion, equivalent to about US$6.2 billion, to address the effects of US tariffs, Carney said Canada’s response was intended to protect local businesses, jobs and the broader economy.
“We’ve responded to those to protect Canadian jobs, to protect Canadian companies and develop our economy,” he said.
Carney maintained that the measures were in the interests of Canadian workers and families and were designed to safeguard the country’s economic future.
Ford, who appeared alongside Carney and Joly during the announcement, also denied seeking to interfere in American elections.
He said his priority was to focus on Ontario and Canada, adding that American voters would determine the outcome of the midterms.
“The people of the United States will make that determination in the midterms,” Ford said.
Joly had similarly rejected allegations of Canadian interference during an interview last week, explaining that her visits to the United States were aimed at attracting investment from American companies.
She said she intended to continue those engagements.
The dispute comes amid months of strained relations between Washington and Ottawa over tariffs, cross-border trade and Canada’s retaliatory measures against US economic policies.
Earlier this month, US Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra warned that American officials were closely monitoring Canadian politicians for indications of election interference.
The latest accusations have also emerged against the backdrop of controversy over comments by Trump administration officials concerning a separation referendum in Canada’s province of Alberta.
Meanwhile, a petition calling for Hoekstra’s removal has reportedly attracted more than 280,000 signatures, with its organisers accusing him of undermining diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The November midterm elections will determine which party controls the two chambers of the US Congress, a result that could significantly shape the remainder of Trump’s presidency.
The allegations have added another point of friction to an already difficult relationship between the two countries, although Canadian officials maintain that their actions are driven by economic interests rather than an attempt to influence American voters.
