Introduction

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is defending her decision to attend a fundraiser in Florida alongside conservative media personality Ben Shapiro on March 27. Smith argues that her participation aligns with her ongoing strategy of “quiet diplomacy,” aimed at gaining the attention of U.S. President Donald Trump during a turbulent trade war between the two nations.

Criticism of Smith's Decision

Critics have called on Smith to withdraw from the event, especially given Shapiro's controversial reputation. The co-founder of The Daily Wire and a former editor at Breitbart News, Shapiro has faced backlash for his homophobic remarks and his provocative suggestion that Canada should potentially become the 51st U.S. state.

Smith's Justification

In a recent radio call-in show, Smith emphasized the importance of engaging with influencers who have the President's ear. "Yelling from the rooftops here won't have the same impact as someone respected by Trump advocating for our cause," she stated, underscoring her belief in the necessity of such high-profile connections.

The Event and Its Implications

Tickets for the "East Coast Gala," where Smith will share the stage with Shapiro, are priced at a staggering USD $1,500, attracting substantial attention and criticism alike. Political science professor Lori Williams from Mount Royal University notes that this particular event differs from Smith's previous engagements with personalities like Tucker Carlson and Jordan Peterson for a significant reason: it serves as a fundraiser for PragerU, a conservative educational organization.

Concerns Over Canadian Sovereignty

The growing scrutiny around Smith's decision heightened due to Shapiro's recent social media activity. He has made statements suggesting that Canada could be subsumed under U.S. jurisdiction, which Williams argues could jeopardize Smith's standing among her supporters back home in Canada.

Reactions from Academia

"Sharing the stage with someone who appears to trivialize Canadian sovereignty could alienate not only progressives but also many patriotic Canadians within her own base," Williams warns.

Conclusion and Future Implications

Despite the backlash, Smith maintains that her approach will ultimately bolster Alberta's interests in the complex landscape of North American trade negotiations. However, skepticism remains regarding the true influence Shapiro holds with Trump, leaving many questioning whether Smith's strategy will pay off in the long run. As Canada navigates these turbulent waters of international trade relations, the implications of Smith's controversial ties could resonate far beyond the immediate political landscape, stirring a national conversation about sovereignty, diplomacy, and the future of Canadian-American relations. Will this bold move prove to be a masterstroke of diplomacy or a misstep that could jeopardize her political future? Only time will tell.