The road to The White House has more ups and downs than most rollercoasters. I don’t think anyone could have written a script for this current race. And if, check after two highly publicized party conventions in the United States over the summer you are already tired of American politics, story brace yourself.

In election years, case the race ramps up in the days and weeks after Labour Day. Much like Canadians, Americans like to spend their summers on fun and leisure, and they pay little attention to campaigning and politicking. So even those who seek to avoid it will be bombarded with advertising, media blitzes and endless analysis of every step and misstep between now and November 8 – election day.

What’s different about this election is the sheer unpredictability of it all. The leading candidate falls ill, and all of a sudden there is a question about her health and ability to serve. Her closest competitor is now committing to releasing his health records “once the numbers come in,” whatever that means. There is a never-ending back and forth about suitability to lead, a lack of transparency when it comes to revealing income tax returns and whether dog whistle politics are sending signals to extreme viewpoints to gain favour. If it were a movie script, it would be dismissed as unbelievable.

But beyond the entertainment value for Canadians, we all need to be watching closely. Regardless of the outcome, there will be a change in relations with Canada. For me, key issues like international trade, border security and cybersecurity are top items. They impact many of our most important sectors – resources, agriculture, IT, transportation and intellectual property to name but a few.

I’ll resist the urge to offer a prediction. I’ve been around long enough to know that 60 days is an eternity in politics. So sit back and enjoy the show. It’s going to be memorable.