Alberta Premier Smith says U.S. midterms ‘vindication’ of her approach to tariffs

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith believes the recent U.S. midterm elections provide a vindication for her province's approach to tariffs, according to a report. Speaking during question period on Wednesday, Smith stated, "It is a vindication of our approach when it comes to tariffs. We always have objected to tariffs. We know it hurts us.

It hurts the Americans." The Democrats secured control of both houses of Congress and flipped long-held Republican Senate seats and state-level positions. These results are seen as a broad rebuke of former U.S. President Donald Trump and his policies, including his stance on international trade partners like Canada. Smith hopes the midterm results will provide an opportunity to improve the relationship between Canada and the U.S., mentioning her government's efforts to foster bipartisan relationships.

Alberta has largely remained neutral in the trade dispute, avoiding retaliatory tariffs and instead focusing on diplomatic means. However, the province announced new measures on Wednesday to prioritize Albertan and Canadian companies for government contracts, aiming to support local businesses and create local job opportunities.

These measures will apply to future contracts and will also be reviewed for existing deals. The policy will target about $350 million in government spending, with 95% of existing contracts already held by Canadian companies. Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi criticized the United Conservative Party for being two years late in implementing such measures, stating that doing so earlier could have created more wealth and jobs in Alberta.

Nenshi also accused Smith of championing "culture war" politics, pointing to a government bill that would require post-secondary schools to develop neutrality policies. Smith responded by stating her government was only countering NDP policies and working to promote free speech.