How will Trump react to Janice Charette being named as Canada’s top trade negotiator?

Canada-US Trade Negotiations: Appointment of Janice Sharet as Chief Negotiator

Key Concepts:

• CUSMA/USMCA/NAFTA: Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (formerly North American Free Trade Agreement) – the governing trade agreement between the three countries.
• Privy Council Office (PCO): The department supporting the Prime Minister and Cabinet in Canada, providing non-partisan advice and coordination. Clerk of the Privy Council is the most senior public servant.
• Bilateral vs. Trilateral Negotiations: Negotiating trade agreements with two countries separately (bilateral) versus all three countries (Canada, US, Mexico) at one table (trilateral).
• Abrogation: The formal repeal or cancellation of a law or agreement.
• Belligerence: Aggressive or warlike behavior.

1. Appointment of Janice Sharet & Background

Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed Janice Sharet as Canada’s new chief trade negotiator to the United States, replacing Kristen Hillman. Sharet brings four decades of experience in public policy and diplomacy to the role, having previously served as Clerk of the Privy Council (the most senior position in the Canadian public service) and Secretary to the Cabinet, as well as High Commissioner to the UK. Prime Minister Carney stated, “With four decades of experience in public policy and diplomacy, Janice Sharet brings extraordinary leadership, expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing Canada's interests. As chief trade negotiator, she will advance Canadian interests and a strengthened trade and investment relationship that benefits workers and industries in both Canada and the United States.” Trade Minister Dominic Leblon expressed his support via social media, anticipating a “strong voice for Canada” and collaboration on the CUSMA review.

2. Scott Reed’s Analysis & Sharet’s Strengths

CTV News political commentator Scott Reed, a former director of communications for Prime Minister Paul Martin, provided analysis on the appointment. He highlighted Sharet’s “vast, deep experience” in public policy, public administration, and international affairs, noting her previous work negotiating a healthcare accord with all Canadian provinces and territories. Reed emphasized Sharet’s key strengths as her calm, focused, and determined manner, and her ability to see a job through to completion. He characterized the appointment as somewhat “unpredictable,” as she is a seasoned bureaucrat rather than a long-time trade negotiator.

3. Potential Challenges: Trump & Gender Dynamics

Reed pointed out a potentially significant dynamic: Donald Trump’s known tendency to react negatively to strong women. He suggested this could create an “interesting dynamic” given Sharet’s likely assertive approach, noting Trump’s history of “lash[ing] out at strong women who speak up.” However, Reed believes Sharet’s personality suggests she won’t be easily deterred by such behavior.

4. Concerns & Counterarguments Regarding Sharet’s Experience

A potential concern raised was Sharet’s lack of specific experience as a dedicated trade negotiator. However, Reed countered this by emphasizing her extensive international relations experience, including her role as High Commissioner to the UK and her oversight of trade-related matters as Clerk of the Privy Council. He confidently stated she “won’t blink” in the face of potential “belligerence” from the Trump White House, describing her as “steady as stone.”

5. New Team Dynamics: Sharet, Wisman & Carney

The discussion turned to the broader team structure, including the recently appointed Canadian Ambassador to the United States, Mark Wisman. The role of a “chief trade negotiator” alongside an ambassador raises questions about the division of responsibilities. Reed noted Prime Minister Carney’s active role in assembling the team – selecting both Sharet and Wisman – and anticipates Carney will take a direct leadership role in the negotiations. He described the team as a blend of experience in business (Wisman) and public administration (Sharet), aiming for “complimentary skill sets.”

6. Negotiation Strategy & Potential US Approach

Reed highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the start of the negotiations. Key questions include: when will formal talks begin, what will be the US’s initial posture, and will the US pursue bilateral negotiations with Canada and Mexico separately or a trilateral approach? He noted reports suggesting the US prefers bilateral deals, a strategy that could be aimed at “divide and conquer.” He also pointed to ongoing communication between Canadian and Mexican officials as a potentially strategic response. A critical unknown is whether Trump will begin by threatening to abrogate CUSMA.

7. Sharet’s Likely Approach & Behind-the-Scenes Role

Reed predicted Sharet will likely operate primarily behind the scenes, focusing on direct negotiations with US counterparts rather than frequent public appearances. He emphasized the effectiveness of a chief negotiator working “with trust” and speaking “frankly” to build consensus. He underscored that her words will carry significant weight for Canadian industry and workers.

8. Monitoring the Negotiations: Key Indicators

Reed identified several key indicators to watch in the coming months: the actual start date of formal negotiations, the US’s negotiating strategy (bilateral vs. trilateral), and Trump’s initial approach – whether it will be confrontational (threatening abrogation) or more measured (focused on specific issues).

Conclusion:

The appointment of Janice Sharet as Canada’s chief trade negotiator signals a strategic approach by the Canadian government, prioritizing experience in public policy and diplomacy. While questions remain about the team’s dynamics and the US’s negotiating strategy, Sharet’s proven track record and calm demeanor are seen as valuable assets in navigating potentially challenging talks with the United States, particularly given the unpredictable nature of the Trump administration. The coming months will be crucial in determining the direction of the CUSMA review and the future of Canada-US trade relations.