Diplomacy or ‘interference’? U.S. warns Canadian officials as midterms near

The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa has warned Canadian officials against attempting to influence American politics as the midterm elections approach, despite the country's own politicians openly discussing plans to do so. The embassy published a list of nine "facts" on Wednesday that purport to demonstrate Canadian attempts to sway U.S. politics, primarily through opposition to President Donald Trump's trade policies.

However, legal experts argue that these actions constitute public diplomacy, not interference, which requires covert and hostile methods. The nine facts, drawn from public statements, media coverage, government documents, and Ontario's anti-tariff campaign, mainly focused on Canada's stance against Trump's tariffs. These activities fall under standard diplomatic relations, not interference.

Trump's approval rating has plummeted to 31% according to a recent Ipsos poll, with 47% of voters preferring Democrats to control Congress. The embassy emphasized that Canadians should refrain from influencing U.S. elections, stating that Americans decide their own elections. Public officials' commentary on other countries' policies is generally not considered interference.

Legal experts such as Carleton University's Leah West and the Brennan Centre have clarified that while some activities might influence policies or politicians, they do not meet the legal definition of interference. Ontario's Industry Minister Melanie Joly and Ontario Premier Doug Ford have expressed plans to influence American politics, but this is seen as diplomatic engagement rather than interference.

Joly noted that she met with Republicans and Democrats during her trips to the U.S., emphasizing that this is a standard part of diplomatic relations. Critics, such as former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister John Manley, questioned the embassy's focus on this matter, suggesting there are more constructive tasks for the diplomat amidst a contentious political climate.