Kenney Calls for Tougher Trade Stance with US Amid Ongoing Tariff Dispute

Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney is calling for his province to take a stronger stance in the ongoing trade war with the US. In an interview on CBC Radio's Calgary Eyeopener, he suggested that export taxes on Alberta's energy resources should be considered as a way to put pressure on President Donald Trump. This approach would involve taxing oil, gas, and potash exports to the US, which is a significant market for these products.

Kenney emphasized that this measure is not about restricting energy exports but rather using a 'modest tax' to remind the Trump administration of the potential consequences of their actions. He noted that more than two-thirds of Alberta's oil is piped to the US, making it a powerful economic tool in this situation.

Kenney also suggested that Alberta and Saskatchewan should join other provinces in restricting the sale of US alcohol as another way to pressure the White House. This move has already been implemented by some provinces, and Kenney believes it may have registered with the Trump administration.

The comments come amid a heated trade war between Canada and the US, with President Trump imposing 50% tariffs on $28-billion worth of Canadian goods last Friday. In response, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced dollar-for-dollar counter-tariffs. The situation is further complicated by an ongoing referendum in Alberta on whether to separate from Canada.

Kenney has joined forces with former premier Rachel Notley to campaign against Alberta separatism and promote the benefits of staying within Canada. They will be co-chairing a business-led campaign, backed by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, which aims to demonstrate that a prosperous Alberta includes being part of Canada.