Ottawa Warns Diplomats Not to Meet With US Midterm Candidates

The Canadian government has directed its diplomats in the U.S. not to meet with or attend events alongside candidates participating in the U.S. midterm elections. This directive was issued following suggestions from the U.S. Embassy that remarks by Canadian leaders could be construed as election interference, an accusation that Ottawa refutes. Diplomats are instructed to avoid being photographed with or having their names associated with candidates in public communications if they are in the same physical space.

• Canadian government has instructed diplomats not to meet with U.S. midterm election candidates.
• Directive follows U.S. Embassy concerns that Canadian leaders’ remarks could be election interference.
• Ottawa denies the charge of election interference.
• Diplomats are to avoid photos or public association with candidates if in the same location.