Quebec will closely monitor the potential impacts a new Donald Trump presidency will have on immigration and the economy, the province’s premier said Wednesday.
François Legault referred to the result of Trump winning the US presidential election in a political comeback that saw him defeat Kamala Harris.
It will be Trump’s second non-consecutive term at the helm of American leadership and, as a result, Legault says he will implement a “task force” made up of several cabinet ministers to defend Quebec’s interests.
“Americans voted yesterday and Mr. Trump won,” Legault said in the provincial legislature. “And we have to respect that result.”
But Legault was quick to voice his concerns about Trump’s victory, warning of a possible flood of asylum seekers at the border and higher tariffs on Quebec exports.
When it comes to immigration, Legault says the province has “done its part” and simply cannot accept any more newcomers. Trump has promised to deport millions of undocumented immigrants from the United States as one of his top priorities.
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“We should not see a massive influx of immigrants from the United States, because that could really unbalance the labor market,” he said. “And our reception capacity, our integration capacity is already overwhelmed.”
The Quebec premier is particularly concerned about the increase in asylum seekers both at land borders and at airports. Legault says his government is looking to further secure its own land borders with the United States if necessary.
“The first thing I want to do is make sure that Mr. (Justin) Trudeau and the federal government take this seriously. “I want a follow-up every week on the number of immigrants we receive in Quebec,” said Legault.
Donald Trump waves as he walks with former first lady Melania Trump at an election night watch party at the Palm Beach Convention Center, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Florida.
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The comments come as Legault’s government has implemented stricter immigration policies in recent months. Last week, Quebec suspended two major programs that are pathways to citizenship, saying it wants to “better regulate” newcomers to the province.
Legault’s other big concern is the economy. He pointed to possible higher tariffs under Trump for Quebec exports, particularly regarding the aeronautical sector, wood products, aluminum and food products.
“Unfortunately, we must expect Mr. Trump and his team to take actions that could be negative for Canada’s economy and Quebec’s economy,” Legault said.
“I think we have to tell each other the truth. There are jobs at stake. Therefore, we will have to be very strategic, especially in key sectors, where Quebec has many exports to the United States.”
Legault’s comments come as other Canadian politicians, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, congratulated Trump in posts on X.
— with files from Gabby Rodrigues of Global and The Canadian Press
© 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
