Calgary, March 28, 2025 – Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is facing criticism for her participation in the PragerU East Coast Gala in Florida, where she is expected to engage with prominent MAGA Republicans to discuss Canada-U.S. trade relations. The event, held at The Boca Raton Resort—owned by Trump supporter Michael Dell—has sparked concerns over Smith’s alignment with American right-wing politics.
Smith reportedly plans to discuss the ongoing tariff dispute between Canada and the U.S., which she claims is benefiting Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government. Her trip also includes a fireside chat with conservative commentator Ben Shapiro, who has previously advocated for aggressive U.S. trade policies against Canada.
Poilievre’s Alleged U.S. Connections
The controversy extends to Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, whose party has reportedly sought U.S. influence to bolster his electoral prospects. Sources allege that efforts were made to ask Jamil Jivani, a Conservative candidate, to persuade his former Yale roommate, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, to urge Donald Trump to distance himself from Poilievre publicly.
The concerns stem from Shapiro’s past comments, in which he suggested that Canada could be annexed by the U.S., likening it to “Puerto Rico of the North”. Although he has since changed his stance—now advocating for lower tariffs on Canadian goods—critics argue that his shift aligns with Smith’s and Poilievre’s political interests rather than genuine concern for Canada.
Criticism Over MAGA Ties
The PragerU event attracts a host of high-profile MAGA figures, including Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, Jordan Peterson, Candace Owens, and Charlie Kirk. Given Poilievre’s close association with the American conservative movement, critics are demanding transparency on how many of his candidates and staff have attended such events.
The backlash highlights a growing concern that Canadian conservative leaders are aligning too closely with U.S. right-wing politics. With a looming federal election, the debate over whether Poilievre and Smith are prioritizing Canada’s interests or catering to foreign political influences is likely to intensify.
Calls for Canadian Leadership
Critics argue that Canada needs a leader who will stand firm against Trump’s influence rather than seek support from American conservatives. With tensions over trade policies and political influence mounting, Smith’s U.S. visit is being framed by opponents as an ill-advised diplomatic move.
As the Conservative Party of Canada strengthens its ties with U.S. right-wing figures, the question remains: Will voters see this as strategic diplomacy or a dangerous entanglement with foreign politics?
