Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney has urged the province to adopt a tougher stance in response to the escalating trade conflict with the United States. Kenney proposed the consideration of export taxes on essential energy resources as a strategic move to exert pressure on U.S. President Donald Trump.

During an interview on CBC Radio’s Calgary Eyeopener, Kenney emphasized the need to signal to Trump that Canada possesses effective defense mechanisms, such as imposing export taxes on critical exports like oil, gas, and potash. However, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith dismissed the idea of curtailing energy exports to the U.S., citing the detrimental impact it would have on Canadians.

The trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. intensified following the collapse of negotiations, leading to Trump imposing 50% tariffs on Canadian goods worth $28 billion, met with retaliatory counter-tariffs by Prime Minister Mark Carney. Kenney clarified that he does not advocate for cutting off energy exports but suggested a modest tax as a means to caution against counterproductive actions by the U.S.

Highlighting the significance of energy exports to the U.S., particularly in the oil sector, Kenney emphasized the potential leverage it provides amid the escalating rhetoric. He recommended Alberta and Saskatchewan to follow other provinces in limiting the sale of U.S. alcohol as a measure that could resonate with the White House.

In a joint effort to advocate for Alberta’s unity within Canada, Kenney and former premier Rachel Notley have teamed up to lead a campaign supported by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. The campaign aims to demonstrate that Alberta’s prosperity is intertwined with its membership in Canada and to discourage separatist sentiments ahead of the upcoming referendum.

Kenney emphasized the importance of setting aside political differences in favor of national unity and patriotism, particularly amidst economic uncertainties reshaping global trade dynamics. The campaign’s details are still being finalized, with a focus on fostering economic cooperation for the benefit of Canada.

Amidst disagreements between political factions, Notley and Kenney share a common stance against the referendum, viewing it as detrimental to Alberta’s economic interests, especially amid the ongoing trade dispute with the U.S. Both leaders advocate for respectful debate within a democratic framework to address differing viewpoints on key issues.