Nation

Danielle Smith: New PM Must Mend Alberta's Wounds or Face Crisis!

2025-04-11

Author: Benjamin

In a bold statement, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has declared that if the Liberals triumph in the upcoming federal election, Mark Carney will have to work hard to mend the strained relationship between his party and Alberta.

While she stopped short of predicting a full-blown national unity crisis, Smith emphasized that the last decade has left many Albertans disillusioned with the idea of a Liberal government.

In a recent address at the Canada Strong and Free Network conference in Ottawa, Smith revealed that she met with Carney before the campaign, presenting him with a list of critical demands. She insisted that these must be met within the first six months of his potential administration to stave off an unprecedented national crisis.

During her dynamic speech, she also endorsed Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, highlighting the necessity for provincial leaders to collaborate for the strength of Canada.

The conference, established by former Reform Party leader Preston Manning, suggested that voting Liberal might even equate to endorsing Western secession, a notion Poilievre has firmly rejected in favor of national unity.

Addressing a captivated audience, Smith pointed to the tariffs imposed on Canada by former U.S. President Donald Trump, claiming they have fostered a newfound consensus about the urgency of building infrastructure like pipelines and port facilities.

With a cheeky flair, she removed her shoe during her talk, showcasing her red-painted toes while declaring, "I’m Team Canada right down to my toes!" She emphasized the need for collaborative support among provincial leaders to face what she identified as an existential threat from the U.S.

When questioned about the implications of a Liberal victory for national unity, Smith replied, "We’ll have to see how Albertans react."

She referenced her pre-election letter aimed at the next prime minister, outlining essential steps to reset Alberta's relationship with the federal government.

Smith's demands are substantial: cross-country access for pipeline construction, the repeal of the controversial Bill C-69—dubbed the 'no new pipelines law' by Poilievre—and a halt to the proposed greenhouse gas emissions cap called for by the Liberals.

Recent polling by Angus Reid revealed that a shocking one-third of Albertans would consider voting for independence should the Liberals secure power, with many feeling disrespected by the federal government over the last decade.

While Carney has promised to fast-track energy project approvals and collaborate with provinces, Smith remains skeptical. She remarked, "I’ve seen the current prime minister make one promise in French and another in English. I truly have no idea what Carney would be like as prime minister if he wins."

Smith’s candid comments serve as a dire warning to Carney and the potential repercussions for national unity should Liberal governance continue to alienate Alberta.