U.S. Embassy Lists Canadian Moves as Midterm Interference

The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa released a fact sheet on Wednesday detailing four Canadian actions it views as potential interference in the November 3 U.S. midterm elections. The document cites specific political activities by Canadian officials while the White House prepares for a key vote.

The embassy listed Liberal MP Anthony Housefather canvassing for a Florida Democrat during an earlier primary. It also referenced comments by Industry Minister Mélanie Joly regarding counter-tariff strategies, some dating back to March 2025. The list includes an Ontario government Ronald Reagan ad that aired in the U.S. last year and a federal billboard campaign from early 2025.

These claims follow warnings from Ambassador Pete Hoekstra and Trump adviser Peter Navarro against Canadian involvement. Prime Minister Mark Carney dismissed the accusations during a news conference in Istanbul on Friday. He stated there is no merit to the claims and expressed disappointment that the U.S. envoy sees this as his role.

President Donald Trump has publicly supported candidates in Poland, Honduras, Colombia, and Japan since early 2025. He recently voiced support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Tuesday's election. Trump also backed Viktor Orbán's failed re-election bid in Hungary and suggested Argentina's financial aid would depend on Javier Milei's party performing well.

Daniel Drezner, a professor of international politics at Tufts University, described the situation as the pot calling the kettle black. He noted the administration has a long record of intervening directly in the elections of official allies. Former U.S. ambassador James Blanchard said the current administration lacks credibility given Trump's public endorsements.

Trade friction continues to impact Republican candidates in border states. Senator Susan Collins of Maine said Friday she secured exemptions to tariff levies and will seek further relief. In Michigan, Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers released an ad earlier this month calling for an end to the tariff war with Canada.

The embassy declined to comment on whether a similar endorsement by a Canadian official would constitute interference. Trump wrote on social media in 2025 that he would rather deal with a liberal than a conservative in Canada. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also described Alberta as a natural partner for the U.S. while discussing its separation referendum.