Danielle Smith on Tariffs
TL;DR
Danielle Smith advocates for diplomatic efforts to persuade the U.S. to reverse its economically damaging tariffs on Canadian goods.
Key Points
She asked U.S. administration officials to pause tariffs until after Canada's federal election to allow the best person at the table to argue the case.
The Premier stressed that the U.S. policy is hurting Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre’s chances of winning the election by benefiting the Liberals.
Smith indicated support for strategic Canadian import tariffs on U.S. goods that are easily sourced elsewhere, with funds directed to Canadians harmed by the U.S. action (2025).
Summary
Danielle Smith, the Premier of Alberta, has been vocal in her opposition to United States tariffs on Canadian goods, viewing them as mutually destructive and damaging to the alliance between the two nations. She stated her disappointment with such tariffs and committed that Alberta would use all necessary power to convince the U.S. President and Congress to reverse the policy. Furthermore, she indicated that Alberta would support a proportionate Canadian response via strategic import tariffs on specific U.S. goods, with funds going to aid Canadians harmed by the U.S. measures.
Her approach has emphasized diplomacy, including visits to the U.S. and engaging with American conservative media outlets to convey Alberta’s message and the importance of the energy sector. This diplomatic strategy, which includes seeking pauses on tariffs until after Canadian elections to allow for optimal renegotiation of trade agreements, has sometimes contrasted with the more aggressive tactics favored by some other provincial leaders. She has also called for Canada to play the 'long game' on trade disputes and decrease heavy reliance on a single trading partner.
Key Quotes
“Because of what we see as unjust and unfair tariffs, it's actually caused an increase in support for the Liberals. And so that's what I fear — is that the longer this dispute goes on, politicians posture and it seems to be benefiting the Liberals right now,”
Frequently Asked Questions
Danielle Smith is strongly opposed to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, stating the policy is mutually destructive and strains the bilateral relationship. She advocates for Alberta to use diplomatic efforts to convince U.S. officials to reverse the trade measure.
Yes, the Premier publicly stated that she asked U.S. administration officials to put the tariffs on pause until after Canada's federal election. She believed the ongoing dispute was politically benefiting the ruling Liberal party in the polls.
Her strategy centers on diplomacy, including engaging directly with American policymakers and media, especially conservative outlets, to advocate for Alberta’s interests, particularly regarding the energy sector. She also supported a proportional Canadian countermeasure.
Sources6
Alberta premier faces backlash for asking America to pause tariffs until after Canada election
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith Issues Statement on American Tariffs
How does Danielle Smith's tariff strategy measure up to that of other premiers?
Varcoe: Danielle Smith wants Canada to play 'long game' on U.S. tariffs, touts energy co-operation
I want to thank the United States Congress for voting to end tariffs on Canadian goods
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