Too friendly to resist: Danielle Smith’s U.S. diplomacy
Summary
West of Centre examines Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s diplomatic approach to US trade tensions, contrasting it with Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s confrontational stance. Alberta’s US representative Nathan Cooper argues that Smith’s relationship-building has shielded the province from severe tariffs, while panelists Cole Hogan and Evan Menzies debate the efficacy of diplomacy versus countermeasures like export taxes. The discussion also addresses US politicians’ comments on Alberta’s secession referendum and the broader implications for Canadian unity.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Liquid I.V. hydration
Intro: Ford vs. Smith on US trade war
Interview: Nathan Cooper on Nashville diplomacy
Alberta's diplomatic approach vs. Ontario's confrontation
US politicians on Alberta secession and the 51st state
Panel: Comparing Smith and Ford's strategies
Sponsors: Midas and CBC Uncover
Why Alberta oil is exempt from US tariffs
Ford's political gains vs. Smith's long-term strategy
Jason Kenney's call for export taxes on oil
Public opinion and the Alberta referendum context
West of Center moves to CBC Radio One
Listen ad-free on Castria