Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is defending herself amid sharp criticism following remarks she made during a March 8 interview with U.S.-based Breitbart, where she discussed Canada’s political climate and the ongoing trade tensions with the United States. Her comments, interpreted by some as a call for foreign interference, have stirred fresh controversy just as Canada enters a federal election campaign.
Key Highlights:
Smith, a vocal critic of Liberal policies and supporter of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, rejected claims that she requested the U.S. government to influence Canada’s internal politics. Her office called the accusations “offensive and false.”
Breitbart Interview Sparks Accusations
Smith told Breitbart that the Conservative Party of Canada had been leading in polls before the U.S.-Canada trade conflict escalated, arguing that the imposition of “unjust and unfair tariffs” by President Donald Trump appeared to have given a boost to the Liberal Party. She said the prolonged dispute was politically advantageous for the Liberals and suggested putting tariff actions on pause until after Canada’s federal election.
“Let’s just put things on pause so we can get through an election,” Smith said in the interview. She added that Poilievre, if elected prime minister, would bring a perspective more aligned with the Trump administration’s trade agenda.
Smith Rejects Interference Allegations
In response to growing criticism, Smith’s office issued a formal denial. Press Secretary Sam Blackett told CBC News that Smith was advocating for diplomatic prudence—not U.S. interference.
“She’s been lobbying U.S. officials to hold off on punitive trade measures—not influencing our democratic process,” the statement read.
Smith also clarified that her comments were meant to reflect her desire for stability in cross-border trade during a sensitive political period, not a call for election meddling.
Poilievre and Carney React
The controversy erupted just as Prime Minister Mark Carney triggered a snap federal election for April 28, 2025, with trade relations at the center of the political narrative.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre defended Smith’s remarks, accusing the Liberal government of mishandling Canada-U.S. relations.
“The president thinks he will have it easier to deal with a liberal,” Poilievre said, referencing Trump’s own comments from earlier in the week.
Carney, however, used Smith’s interview to highlight Poilievre’s closeness to Trump, warning voters that “everything would be on the table” under a Poilievre government.
Analysts: Comments Not Out of Line
Public policy analyst Gitane De Silva weighed in, suggesting Smith merely offered a conservative opinion on Canada’s leadership.
“She was answering a direct question,” De Silva said. “Just like Trump has made clear his preference, Smith is entitled to do the same.”
What’s at Stake
Smith’s comments come as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) faces heightened scrutiny. With Trump threatening additional tariffs, the April election could determine how Canada navigates the next phase of trade negotiations and diplomatic positioning.
Smith reiterated Sunday that her concern lies in avoiding harmful tariffs while Canada is in a transitional political phase.
“Now that an election has been called,” she said, “I would reiterate my hope that the United States would refrain from placing tariffs on their closest ally and largest trading partner during the middle of the election.”
As the April 28 election approaches, Smith’s comments have reignited debates about the appropriate limits of international engagement during election periods. With trade, sovereignty, and U.S. relations all under the spotlight, the political fallout from her remarks may shape Canada’s path in the weeks to come.
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