A Conversation with Professor Laura Macdonald
The violent insurrection and angry mobs that broke into the U.S. Capital earlier this month have sent shockwaves around the world, changing the conversation about global power and politics. On this week’s episode of Down to Business, we spoke with Professor Laura Macdonald, a renowned expert in political science from Carleton University, about what this means for Canada and the North American regional economy.
The Inheritance of Joe Biden
As President-elect Joe Biden prepares to take office, he will inherit a country with pre-existing conditions that will make multilateral cooperation more difficult. According to Professor Macdonald, "Biden’s inauguration only turns the page so much." This is because the United States has been plagued by political dysfunction and partisan gridlock for decades.
The Legacy of Trump
While Biden’s presidency may bring some change to the White House, it is unlikely that he will be able to overcome the deep-seated divisions within American society. "Trump’s legacy will continue to shape U.S. politics," Macdonald warns. "His populist agenda and divisive rhetoric have created a toxic environment that will take time to heal."
The Impact on Canada
So what does this mean for Canada? Professor Macdonald believes that the instability in the United States will have significant implications for our country’s economy and foreign policy. "Canada has historically been closely tied to the United States," she explains. "As a result, we will likely feel the effects of U.S. instability through trade disruptions, changes in security cooperation, and shifts in global economic dynamics."
Economic Implications
The North American regional economy is highly integrated, with the United States, Canada, and Mexico sharing a massive trade relationship. However, this integration also makes us vulnerable to the economic consequences of U.S. instability. "A slowdown in the U.S. economy could have a ripple effect across the continent," Macdonald warns.
Security Implications
In addition to economic implications, Professor Macdonald highlights the potential security risks associated with U.S. instability. With rising tensions between the United States and its allies, there is "a real potential for ongoing terrorist acts" in the wake of the Washington insurrection. This increases the risk of global instability and poses significant challenges for Canadian policymakers.
What’s Next?
As the world waits to see how President-elect Biden will navigate these complex issues, Professor Macdonald emphasizes that Canada must remain vigilant. "We need to be prepared for any eventuality," she advises. "This includes monitoring U.S.-Canada trade relations, strengthening our alliances with other countries, and investing in economic diversification."
Listen Now
To hear more about the implications of U.S. instability on global power and politics, listen to this week’s episode of Down to Business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or Google Play.
About Professor Laura Macdonald
Professor Laura Macdonald is a renowned expert in international relations and globalization at Carleton University. Her research focuses on the intersection of politics, economy, and society, with a particular emphasis on Canada’s role in the world.
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This is just the beginning of our conversation about the impact of U.S. instability on global power and politics. We invite you to join us as we explore this complex topic in more depth.
