Alberta Premier Smith Faces Pressure Over Tariff Retaliation Plans
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is facing pressure from Canadian provinces to impose levies on energy exports to the US, following threats from President Donald Trump's tariffs.
The calls for a retaliatory measure come as Prime Minister Mark Carney accuses Trump of trying to destroy Ontario's auto industry.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has already proposed matching insult with insult by imposing exit taxes on Canadian energy exports.
This strategy could cause significant problems for the US, which relies heavily on Alberta's heavy oil imports to meet its diesel needs.
With mid-term elections approaching and Trump's approval ratings in a slump, a spike in diesel prices would be a major blow to the administration.
Smith understands the potential leverage of this strategy but is urging caution, advocating for a return to trade talks instead of escalating tensions.