OTTAWA — As the November 3 U.S. midterm elections approach, American citizens living across Canada are getting increasingly active in political discussions. While Democratic supporters are vocal and eager to make their choices known from the rooftops, some Republicans living north of the border appear hesitant to speak out publicly, fearing backlash from their Canadian neighbours.
The global community is watching closely to see whether Democrats can seize control of the Senate, the House of Representatives, or both from the Republicans. A Democratic shift in either chamber could significantly alter President Donald Trump’s agenda, opening the door for new investigations into key allies and executive agency heads, as well as potential impeachment proceedings.
Expat Turnout and Voting Process
- Eligible Voters: There are over 430,000 U.S. citizens living in Canada who are eligible to vote.
- Historical Turnout: Voter participation among overseas expats remains historically low. Turnout among U.S. voters in Canada was estimated at roughly 10% during the last general election, compared to a domestic U.S. turnout rate of about 76%.
- Absentee Ballots: Eligible U.S. citizens can request absentee ballots via mail, email, fax, or internet downloads depending on their home state regulations, allowing them to participate in federal, state, and local races.
Trade Disputes and Controversy Over ‘Lake America’
Escalating trade tensions between Ottawa and Washington have become a dominant issue for expats this election season. Following a breakdown in trade negotiations in August, President Trump signed an executive order purporting to rename Lake Ontario as “Lake America” and hit various Canadian goods with 50% tariffs. Ottawa promptly responded with retaliatory duties of its own.
Georganne Burke, chapter lead for Republicans Overseas in Canada, estimates that Democratic expats outnumber Republicans by roughly a 3-to-1 ratio in Canada.
“I know that most Republicans are very motivated to vote, but they are very quiet about it. They don’t talk because they’re not received in a very friendly way in Canada, which is kind of unfortunate.”
— Georganne Burke, Republicans Overseas in Canada
Meanwhile, Democratic organizers in Canada are urging every eligible voter to submit their ballots to hold the executive branch in check, citing deep concerns over trade disputes, foreign policy, and the erosion of cross-border relations.
