A former member of the Canadian House of Commons has expressed concern over the state of democracy in the United States amid escalating tensions between Canada and the U.S. president. In a recent letter, Denise Savole of Comox, British Columbia, acknowledged the economic challenges posed to Canada by aggressive actions from the American administration but emphasized a broader worry about the democratic future of the United States.

Savole described the U.S. president’s approach as involving economic coercion, name-calling, and insults directed at Canada, yet expressed confidence that Canada will endure and respond with respect and democratic principles. However, she warned that if she were American, she would be deeply concerned about the survival of American democracy under leadership she characterized as increasingly authoritarian and supported by enablers.

Highlighting the foundations of democracy, Savole pointed to the importance of an educated populace. Despite the United States’ reputation for having some of the world’s top universities, she noted that decades of growing economic inequality and insufficient investment in public education have contributed to the polarization and anger that underpin the MAGA movement. She called for Americans to actively defend education and democratic ideals in response to these challenges.

While recognizing the material consequences of U.S. policy toward Canada, Savole’s primary fear lies with the potential erosion of democratic values in the United States itself. Her remarks underscore broader concerns about political polarization and governance at a time of strained bilateral relations.