New report sheds light on what American lawmakers think of Canada

Have you ever wondered what American politicians think of Canada when the media spotlight isn't on them?

Well, they certainly don't envy our healthcare system and actually think our immigration policies create the potential for terrorists to cross the border.

Those are some of the findings of the Fraser Institute, which released a report this week examining what U.S. senators and House of Representatives members think of Canada.

The national right-wing think-tank analyzed transcribed congressional debates between 2001 and 2010, where the focus of discussion was Canada or Canadian policy, and unearthed some intriguing conclusions.

On matters of energy policy and foreign affairs, the report notes Canada is highly regarded by our neighbours to the south. Conversely, American policy makers are critical of our healthcare system, border security and trade laws.

Here are some of the summary findings of the report:

Foreign Affairs:

Both the Republicans and Democrats are nearly unanimous in their favourable opinion of Canada when they discuss defence and foreign Affairs. Most members of both parties describe Canada as a geopolitical ally and friend. Apart from a few negative references to Canada's not participating in the military intervention in Iraq, the remainder of the comments praise Canada for its contributions to NATO, continental defence and its commitment to the security of Afghanistan.

Healthcare:

Republicans have a consistently negative view of Canadian health care and Democrats refuse to defend it. Canada did receive praise, however, regarding pharmaceuticals - some Republicans felt Canada's use of government bargaining power when purchasing pharmaceuticals was a good policy that should be adopted in the United States.

The report notes a series of interesting comments about our healthcare system: Republican Sen. John Barrosso from Wyoming pointed out that in 2009 some 33,000 Canadians came to the United States for surgery. His colleague Sen. Chuck Grassley, a Republican from Iowa responded, "Canada brags about having a single (health) plan. But Canada does not have just a single plan. There is a second plan, and it is called the United States of America."

Energy and Environment:

Most American politicians are eager to secure access to Canada's energy resources and favourably inclined to their development. Oil sands products and natural gas dominated the conversation concerning energy trade. Most Republicans and Democrats, with a few notable exceptions, see Canada as a stable source of energy imports and a key component in their strategy for energy security.

Border Security:

American legislators are most critical about the shared border and Canada's perceived management of the border. Their worry about the threat of terrorists staging attacks from Canada remains high. Perceptions of the Mexican and Canadian border are roughly similar.

In reference to our perceived lax refugee system, one U.S. lawmaker quipped:

"Osama bin Laden could land in Ontario, claim he is Osama the tent maker . . . and walk unfettered probably into the United States."

(CP Photo)