Alberta MLA Calls for Leverage in U.S. Trade Dispute

Airdrie-Cochrane MLA Peter Guthrie is calling on Alberta to reconsider its stance in the ongoing trade dispute with the United States. In a letter addressed to constituents and Albertans, Guthrie argued that the province's economic weight should strengthen Canada's bargaining position.

Following the collapse of Canada-U.S. trade negotiations, the U.S. imposed 50% tariffs on $28 billion worth of Canadian goods. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada would respond with matching tariffs, which are set to take effect September 8th.

Guthrie criticized the Alberta government for taking negotiating leverage off the table in the trade dispute. He cited former Premier Peter Lougheed's response to the National Energy Program in 1980, where Alberta reduced oil production to defend its interests and create leverage for serious negotiations.