REGINA, Sask. — Saskatchewan political leaders are expressing hope that changes in the U.S. Congress will mean a change in tone in Canada's relations with the White House.
The Democrats made major gains in the Nov. 3 U.S. midterm elections, winning control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The results saw heavy Republican losses, including in Midwestern farm states such as Iowa and Kansas, and even in their traditional stronghold of Texas.
Several issues have been cited as contributing to the GOP's losses, including cost-of-living concerns and the war in Iran. Many social media comments have also pointed to President Donald Trump's tariff policies on Canada and other countries as a major contributing factor.
Saskatchewan political leaders have indicated they hope this is the beginning of a change in the trade relationship. Premier Scott Moe issued the following statement on the results:
“Tariffs drive up the cost of living on both sides of the border. Last night’s US election results were due at least in part to the impact of those harmful tariff policies. We now have an opportunity to reset our relationship with the U.S. and restore free and fair trade between our two countries. I know Canada is ready to do this. Hopefully, the US is as well.”
Opposition Leader Carla Beck issued a statement in which she noted Americans had voted for change.
“I hope that last night’s election results mark a turning point after several tense — and, at times, devastating — years in our trading relationship with the United States,” Beck said.
“Let’s be clear that tariffs have cost hundreds of Saskatchewan workers their jobs, and the threats to Canada’s very sovereignty have caused a great deal of stress and frustration.
“It will take time for wounds to heal; however, I fully recognize that we are stronger when we work together with the United States as trusted and reliable trading partners, as we have done for more than 170 years. I hope that the era of Donald Trump’s tariffs is coming to an end. I believe last night’s election results were a stunning rebuke of these harmful economic policies and a clear message that the majority of Americans value their relationship with Canada and that they see us as allies, not enemies.
“We will never be the 51st state. We will always be a willing and active partner in economic prosperity. This is Canada, the True North, Strong and Free.”
Speaking to reporters in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan's trade and export development minister, Warren Kaeding, was hopeful about what the results might mean for trade talks with the United States.
“Well, certainly, first and foremost, we always believe in free and fair trade, and that we're going to continue to have that message,” Kaeding said.
“I'd say what the midterms provided last time is probably a reset, a reset of an opportunity to reengage and restart those conversations. And as we've heard from the Prime Minister, it sounds somewhat positive and optimistic that those discussions are beginning again. And certainly after last night's results, I'd say we're looking forward to that conversation and see what the results are.”
– With files from Jon Perez
