National Times Bureau, March 30, 2025 – Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is willing to step into the “lion’s den” to persuade American officials against imposing Canadian tariffs, taking an unorthodox approach by courting former U.S. President Donald Trump and engaging with right-wing media.
While many Canadian leaders, including Prime Minister Mark Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford, have taken a hard stance against Trump, Smith has chosen a more diplomatic route. However, her strategy has drawn criticism not only from political opponents but also from allies in Alberta and across the country.
Her approach has put federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in a difficult position during Canada’s federal election campaign, with the country set to vote on April 28. In January, while Trump was still president-elect, Smith had what she described as a “friendly and constructive conversation” with him at Mar-a-Lago, discussing Canada-U.S. energy relations.
However, a March interview with Breitbart News stirred controversy. Speaking to the conservative outlet, Smith suggested that Trump’s proposed “unjust and unfair” tariffs had inadvertently boosted support for the Liberal Party. She expressed concern that prolonged political posturing over tariffs could benefit the Liberals, urging U.S. officials to delay any trade actions until after the election.
Smith also remarked that Poilievre’s policies would align with the “new direction in America,” implying that a Conservative-led Canada could ease tensions with the U.S. These comments resurfaced as federal leaders campaigned, prompting strong criticism from political rivals. New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh called her remarks “shameful,” questioning her loyalty to Canada. The Liberals seized on the controversy, using it to claim that Poilievre and Trump share a political vision that may not serve Canadian interests.
Some interpreted Smith’s remarks as a request for Trump to delay tariffs to improve the Conservatives’ election chances. Social media backlash was swift, with some labeling her a “traitor” and accusing her of seeking foreign interference in Canada’s elections—an allegation she has denied.
“Interference is one thing,” Smith told the Alberta legislature on Monday. “Asking the U.S. to refrain from (tariffs) is actually the opposite. I do not want to see anyone interfere in our elections.”
Meanwhile, Poilievre has distanced himself from the controversy. When asked about Smith’s statements, he responded, “People are free to make their own comments. I speak for myself.”
