Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney is urging the province to adopt a more assertive position as tensions rise in the trade dispute with the U.S. Kenney suggested that imposing export taxes on key energy resources could be a strategic move to increase pressure on President Donald Trump.
During an interview on CBC Radio’s Calgary Eyeopener, Kenney emphasized the need to signal to Trump the potential consequences of further reckless actions that could severely harm the Canadian economy. He proposed the idea of implementing export taxes on critical exports such as oil, gas, and potash to demonstrate the province’s ability to defend itself in a stronger manner.
However, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has opposed the idea of cutting energy exports to the U.S., stating that such a measure would be detrimental to Canadians and not a viable solution. The ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. escalated recently when Trump imposed 50 per cent tariffs on $28 billion worth of Canadian goods, leading to retaliatory actions announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Kenney clarified that he does not advocate for completely restricting energy exports to the U.S., but he believes that a modest tax could serve as a reminder to the Trump administration that their actions are counterproductive. With over two-thirds of Alberta’s oil flowing to the U.S., Kenney highlighted the economic leverage this provides amid the escalating trade rhetoric.
In addition to energy, Kenney suggested that Alberta and Saskatchewan should consider limiting the sale of U.S. alcohol, a move that has reportedly gained attention at the White House. Meanwhile, Premier Smith has expressed disinterest in banning imports of U.S. alcohol and cautioned against hasty retaliatory tariffs by the federal government.
Kenney’s remarks on the trade conflict coincide with his collaboration with former premier Rachel Notley to advocate for Alberta’s continued unity within Canada. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce announced that Kenney and Notley, despite their past political rivalry, will co-chair a campaign emphasizing the importance of Alberta’s prosperity within the country.
As preparations for the Oct. 19 referendum on Alberta’s status unfold, Kenney emphasized the need for unity across political lines in support of federalism. Notley criticized the UCP government for allegedly promoting separatist sentiments, asserting that the referendum is ill-timed amidst the trade tensions with the U.S. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to standing together against separatism and prioritizing constructive debate in a democratic society.