Ford, Smith Diverge on Using Energy as Leverage in Trade Talks

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith have different views on using energy as leverage in trade negotiations with the United States. In a phone call on Monday, Ford expressed his desire to use Canada's resources, including oil, to 'put pain on the U.S.' in response to tariffs.

However, Smith strongly disagrees, stating that cutting off Alberta's energy exports would be extremely harmful to Canadians and is not a viable option. She emphasized her stance through a statement released after their call.

The two premiers may disagree on using energy as leverage but are united in pushing for more oil to flow within Canada. They are working together to advance the proposed pipeline from Alberta to refineries in Sarnia, Ontario, routed through Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

Ford plans to meet with Smith in person in a few weeks' time when he visits Alberta.