U.S. election: How would Harris, Trump immigration plans impact Canada? – National

The outcome of the closely contested U.S. presidential election between Vice-President Kamala Harris and Donald Trump may hinge on immigration, with implications for Canada.

While the economy remains a top concern for American voters, immigration is also a significant issue, with a growing number of people calling for stricter border controls.

Gallup polling shows that a majority of Americans want to decrease immigration levels, with 55% expressing this view, the highest since 2002. Although 64% believe immigration is beneficial overall, it’s the lowest in a decade.

Trump has centered his campaign on addressing unauthorized immigration, proposing policies like mass deportations. Harris, on the other hand, supports immigration but advocates for more conservative measures in line with countries like Canada that have imposed entry limits.

Canada plans to reduce the number of new permanent residents by 21% next year, a decision announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Immigration Minister Marc Miller.

Erin Corcoran, a professor at the University of Notre Dame, notes a shift in the conversation around immigration, with a focus on stricter policies.

Here’s a comparison of the immigration platforms of the two candidates and their potential impact on Canada.

Harris aims to maintain asylum restrictions and support bipartisan immigration reform. Biden’s proclamation in June restricted asylum for migrants at the southern border when overwhelmed.

Harris intends to uphold these restrictions, despite opposition. Trump’s policies focus on mass deportation and stricter border controls.

Trump plans to implement the largest deportation effort in U.S. history, targeting undocumented immigrants. Harris vows to reintroduce a failed immigration reform bill and pursue legislative reforms for an earned pathway to citizenship.

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Trump’s immigration policies could lead to significant consequences, including increased deportations and stricter border enforcement.

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Trump’s focus on border security and deportation could have far-reaching consequences, potentially affecting Canada’s economy and immigration policies.

Experts suggest that a Harris presidency would likely lead to more cooperation between the U.S. and Canada on immigration issues, while a Trump administration could result in more challenges and spillover effects.

Canada faces pressure to manage migration flows from the U.S., especially concerning the northern border. The country’s screening measures are under scrutiny following arrests related to alleged terrorist plots.

Christian Leuprecht, a professor, emphasizes the need for collaboration to address border issues and avoid unilateral actions.

A Harris presidency may prompt Canada to enhance border and immigration screening measures, but discussions are likely to be diplomatic and behind the scenes. Republicans in Congress may push for stricter approaches.

Despite differences, Harris’s proposals for asylum restrictions and legal immigration pathways align with Canada’s approach, offering a potential balanced solution to global migration challenges.

Dr. Anna Triandafyllidou highlights the importance of managing migration beyond borders and the need for a comprehensive approach.

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Trump’s policies could lead to an increase in undocumented immigrants seeking refuge in Canada, potentially straining resources and border security.

Changes in temporary protected status for Haitians in the U.S. contributed to an influx of migrants at the border, prompting adjustments to the Safe Third Country Agreement between the U.S. and Canada.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller acknowledges the government’s plan to manage potential migration surges from the U.S. to Canada in response to Trump’s policies.

Economic projections suggest that a mass deportation initiative by Trump could impact Canada’s GDP and affect temporary foreign workers.

Public opinion in the U.S. recognizes the contributions of immigrants to the economy, underscoring the importance of collaboration on immigration issues.

Collaboration between Canada and the U.S. will be crucial in addressing evolving migration challenges, including those related to climate change.