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.”
Opposition critic Aleana Young welcomed the vote result and what she saw as a swing away from Trump politics.
“I mean, obviously, I'm elated,” said Young.
“I think the type of divisive mega-style politics that we've seen coming out of the United States under this administration are deeply troubling and anti-democratic, and I think it is an incredible reminder of the people who really have the power, and that's the voters…
“People are busy, got active families, they're focused on paying their bills, their own lives, but they care deeply about their country, they care deeply about their neighbours, and I think we saw that in the results last night, and I think it's incredibly encouraging for non-incumbents everywhere.”
At the legislature, Deputy Premier Jim Reiter hoped there would be a change in tone from south of the border to trade issues.
“I just hope that a message has been sent that people on, and again, you know, the Americans obviously are unhappy with the cost of living. The tariffs are exacerbating that,” said Reiter.
”And I think, again, as I said earlier, the cost of living on both sides of the border is an issue, and the tariffs are a big part of that. So, hopefully, common sense will prevail and we'll get some sort of an agreement soon.”
Reiter acknowledged that many of the farm states — such as Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, and Texas — were ones that particularly sent a message to Republicans.
“They're among the key states being impacted by tariffs. So, it makes sense that the states that are most directly impacted are going to have the most visceral reaction.”
Reiter said he was also optimistic that a trade deal could get done with the U.S. administration. As for his basis for that optimism, he pointed to the media reports about it.
“You know, Prime Minister Carney did a social media post the other day talking about talks going on. I'm not privy to any detailed talks that are happening to the federal government in the U.S. You know, we're watching with interest, supporting where we can. But I think for the good of both countries, I think common sense would just tell you we'd be better with a trade deal.”
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
