CANADALAND How to Cut A Trade Deal Amid Trump’s Tariff Chaos
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Mar 24, 2026 Nick Taylor-Vaisey, Politico Ottawa bureau chief covering U.S.–Canada relations, and Michael L. MacDonald, Canadian senator active in interparliamentary diplomacy. They unpack behind-the-scenes parliamentary channels, cross-border relationship-building, and Canada’s quiet, strategic approach to trade talks amid global distractions. Short, revealing conversations about outreach, reputation, and why showing up in Washington still matters.
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Interparliamentary Diplomacy Keeps Channels Open
- The Canada–US Interparliamentary Group performs quiet, relationship-focused diplomacy to remind U.S. lawmakers of deep cross-border ties.
- Michael L. MacDonald says behind-closed-doors meetings highlight trade numbers and local economic links to build goodwill.
Stay Quiet And Be Reliable
- Canadian delegations prioritize non‑confrontational messaging to avoid public political fights that could derail negotiations.
- MacDonald stresses staying out of U.S. domestic politics and reinforcing Canada as a reliable partner.
Respectful Conversations On Practical Trade Issues
- Nick Taylor‑Vaisey describes meetings as generally respectful and focused on shared ground rather than insults.
- He notes senators and MPs avoid hot-button topics and emphasize practical trade interests like autos in border states.
