Edmonton — Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is already under fire this week for accepting a lucrative speaking engagement in Florida. She has announced plans to secretly attend a private event with a prominent far-right American influencer. The trip has drawn condemnation from Alberta’s Opposition NDP. Smith is committed to trying to convince American decision-makers to dump tariffs, convinced that this step is in the best interest of Canada. Despite the criticism, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has praised Smith’s efforts, describing her as one of Canada’s strongest advocates.
In an impassioned address from the floor of the house, Premier Smith vigorously defended herself against these treasonous charges. She remained steadfast in support of her advocacy efforts stateside. She stressed that her moves are intended to de-escalate the burgeoning trade war with the United States. Moe is a supporter of this position and praised her for taking on the tariff issue. The Alberta’s Opposition NDP have been loud in their opposition, calling on Smith to call off her trip to Florida.
Smith’s visit has remained live wire. The NDP alleges it’s due to her connections to a far-right, Islamophobic organization that rejects the history of American slavery. These critics have rightly noted that it is taxpayer money that is being used to fund this junket. The far-right U.S. influencer hosting the event has previously mocked Canada as a “silly country” and suggested its annexation as the 51st state, further fueling the debate over Smith’s decision to attend.
Even with all the pushback, Smith doesn’t seem deterred from her goal of pushing for and protecting the interests of Canada’s most western province. Her proactive efforts to educate and engage U.S. decision-makers on complex issues like tariffs are a testament to her passion and dedication. She is passionately committed to advancing Canada-U.S. As a member of the United Conservative Party, Smith continues to navigate the complex landscape of international relations while facing domestic scrutiny.
