Canada's Mark Carney left with a dilemma after Trump's crushing midterms defeat

Résumé détaillé

American tariffs on Canadian exports became a key issue in the midterms, with Democrats blaming them for higher prices and pledging opposition

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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Tuesday that U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration remains the primary authority on trade agreements despite sweeping Democratic wins in last week’s U.S. midterm elections.

His remarks indicate Ottawa will continue looking to the White House for a bilateral deal, even as Democrats prepare to challenge Trump’s tariffs.

American tariffs on Canadian exports became a key issue in the midterms, with Democrats blaming them for higher prices and pledging opposition.

"What is clear is that the people who decide on trade agreements are the executive in the United States over the next two or three years," Carney told reporters in Montreal. "The President, the executive and Americans, not necessarily legislators."

He was responding to plans by Quebec to reach out directly to U.S. officials, including governors and senators.

"In a negotiation, it’s always a good idea to have one negotiator. And that is the government’s responsibility," Carney said.

Carney said he spoke with Trump over the weekend and could meet him at upcoming summits, noting the leaders communicate regularly.

"It’s good to sit down, but it’s not absolutely necessary," Carney said.

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