QuickQuotes: Canadian leaders react to Democratic majority win in U.S. Congress

OTTAWA — The Democrats will take control of both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate in January after decisive victories in Tuesday’s midterm elections.

The Republicans previously held a majority of seats in both houses of Congress.

Here is what some Canadian leaders are saying.

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“We congratulate those who were elected but our focus hasn’t changed. Yesterday we went to work on issues of affordability for Canadians, on building major projects, on strengthening the Canadian economy and diversifying our trading relationships. That was our focus yesterday, that is actually our focus today and will be the focus tomorrow in the budget.”

Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc

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“What the midterms did do is reconfirm what I said all along, which is we have massive leverage in the form of the goodwill of the American people. I mean Americans hate these tariffs. Everywhere I went in the States, and it didn’t matter if it was Texas or Detroit or New York, Democrat, Republican, worker or business union or management, everybody hates the tariffs. We’ve got to use that goodwill to pressure for tariff-free trade.”

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre

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“Obviously we watch them with interest, but I think the strategy for Canada going forward remains the same — to defend our economic interests by diversifying trade partners, seeing if we can work through the challenges that we continue to have vis-a-vis the United States. Congratulations to everyone who has put their name forward on the ballot, including specifically those who have been elected, but the work remains the same for Canada today and tomorrow.”

Justice Minister Sean Fraser

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“I think we’ve always made it a point of our diplomacy to engage at all levels with the U.S. government. Last night is just another example of the American people speaking … I think we’ve always fought for the best deal possible. The Americans have their reasons for what they did yesterday, and I think that’s their choice, and I obviously respect it.”

Canadian Heritage Minister Marc Miller

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“Last night’s U.S. 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 U.S. is as well.”

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe

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“The American people have delivered a resounding rejection of the president’s actions over the past two years. Canadians are ready to rebuild the relationship and strengthen our economies.”

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew

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“Our focus continues to be fighting for the best possible trade deal and delivering good paying jobs for New Brunswickers. We are looking forward to building relationships with the newly elected Governors, Senators and Congresspeople and expect that their leadership will result in improved trade conditions for N.B. entrepreneurs and workers.”

New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt

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“I’m directing our ministers as soon as everyone gets sworn in, go down to Washington, connect with the senators, the congresspeople, and of course, I’ll be talking to the governors and seeing how we can move forward. But let’s be under no illusion that this trade war is done. It’s not done. It’s not even close to being done because the president still has the power.”

Ontario Premier Doug Ford

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“It is a vindication of our approach when it comes to tariffs. We always have objected to tariffs. We know it hurts us. It hurts the Americans. It is also is a vindication of our approach when it comes to reaching across the aisle.”

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith

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“Our relationship with the U.S. is grounded in shared interests, longstanding partnerships, and enduring connections. We remain committed to working together on priorities such as trade, economic growth, and regional development.”

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 4, 2026.

Alyssa Wheeler, The Canadian Press