Cory Morgan: Smith’s Risky Move Taking on Trudeau Despite Caucus Revolt and Poor Poll Numbers

October 19, 2024 TruthUSA

Commentary

The relationship between the Trudeau government and Alberta has often been strained. However, in the realm of politics, Prime Minister Trudeau inadvertently aids provincial leaders like Premier Danielle Smith.

The Alberta UCP is set to hold its annual general meeting in early November with over 6,000 attendees registered. The high turnout is likely tied to a leadership review of Premier Smith, which could potentially lead to a conservative faction attempting to remove her from office. One effective way to rally support within an Albertan party is by engaging in a conflict with the Liberals in Ottawa, which Smith has done through a $7 million advertising campaign against a possible federal emissions cap.

Premier Smith openly challenged Trudeau’s motives and even dared him to call an election in a recent interview with the Calgary Herald. By provoking a response from the prime minister, Smith positions herself as the defender of Alberta’s interests against the Trudeau Liberals, likely boosting her support in the leadership review.

While Smith’s political tactics are strategic, the question arises whether they will lead to beneficial policies.

Expressing concerns about the Trudeau government’s potential risks, Premier Smith cautioned, “In the last few months of a dying government is when they’re the most dangerous.”

It is possible that Smith’s observation about the government being in its final stages is accurate, and that it could pose risks to policies unfavorable to her interests. Therefore, is it prudent for her to provoke Trudeau in his current vulnerable state?

The federal government is currently facing challenges and distractions, with Trudeau fighting to maintain leadership amidst mounting pressures. In response to Smith’s attacks, a desperate Trudeau could potentially impose a national energy policy on Alberta, similar to his father’s controversial National Energy Program of the 1980s. Antagonizing a cornered prime minister might not be the wisest move for a premier on the opposing end of the political spectrum.

An emissions cap poses a threat to traditional energy producers, and Premier Smith is advocating for Alberta by opposing it. However, given Trudeau’s precarious position, a less confrontational approach towards the issue may have been more effective in persuading him to reconsider or adjust the policy. Yet, such an approach would not have the same impact on rallying support from Smith’s party members.

Aside from the impending leadership review, Smith may be strategizing to maximize the use of Trudeau’s government as a political adversary, especially considering the likelihood of Trudeau leaving office within a year. A shift in leadership to Pierre Poilievre could necessitate a different approach from the Alberta government towards dealing with the federal government.

As the political drama unfolds in Ottawa, it’s crucial to remember the importance of prioritizing national security over partisan conflicts. Canada is in need of a strong and stable federal government to tackle pressing issues effectively.

Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

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