In the Breitbart interview, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith didn’t say which Trump officials she spoke with or how they responded. The Canadian Press
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith revealed that she asked the Trump administration to hold off on imposing new tariffs on Canada until after the federal election. She hoped the delay would help boost support for Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives.
In an interview with Breitbart News on March 8, Smith explained that the tariffs were helping the Liberals gain voter support. “Because of what we see as unjust and unfair tariffs, it’s actually caused an increase in support for the Liberals,” she said. She added that she urged U.S. officials to pause the tariffs to prevent them from benefiting Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberals during the campaign.
Smith did not specify which Trump administration officials she spoke with or what response she received. However, her comments sparked backlash, with critics accusing her of inviting foreign interference in Canada’s election.
Criticism from Political Rivals
Alberta NDP leader Naheed Nenshi slammed Smith, saying she appeared more interested in pleasing Trump than protecting Canadian interests. “Calling for a pause on tariffs to politically benefit one party or another isn’t the right approach,” Nenshi said. “But standing firm for Canada is.”
Smith’s press secretary, Sam Blackett, rejected claims that she was encouraging U.S. involvement in the election. He called the accusations “offensive and false.”
Smith later clarified her comments, saying she had been working to convince U.S. officials of the damage the tariffs would cause on both sides of the border. She argued that the tariffs should be delayed until after the election, when the next prime minister would have a clear mandate.
“Now that an election has been called, I would reiterate my hope that the U.S. would refrain from placing tariffs on their closest ally and largest trading partner during the middle of the election,” Smith said.
Poilievre Stays Silent, Carney Criticizes
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre did not directly address whether Smith’s comments were appropriate. Instead, he criticized Carney’s government, saying that Trump preferred dealing with Liberals because they had weakened Canada.
Liberal leader Mark Carney took a direct shot at Smith and Poilievre, accusing them of promoting division and leaning toward “Americanism.” Carney said voters would have to decide if they want a government that stands united for Canada or one influenced by U.S. interests.
Smith Praises Poilievre’s Policies
During the interview, Smith praised Poilievre’s policies, saying they aligned with Trump’s economic direction. She highlighted Poilievre’s support for development, low-cost energy, and lower taxes, while rejecting what she called “woke” politics.
Smith said that while there may still be trade disputes under Poilievre, his leadership would better align with Trump’s approach. “I think we’d have a really great relationship for the period of time they’re both in,” she said.
