 In contrast, during the 2006 election campaign, Harper promised to improve relations with United States, blaming the previous Liberal government for damaging the relationship due to inappropriate comments made towards the George W. Bush administration.However, shortly after being congratulated by George W. Bush for his victory, Harper rebuked U.S.Ambassador to Canada David Wilkins for criticizing the Conservatives' plans to assert Canada's sovereignty over the Arctic Ocean waters through an increased presence by the Canadian Forces.