Cory Morgan suggests Trudeau and Smith should unite to prevent a potential trade war with the US
Commentary
Battles between provinces and the federal government are ingrained in Canada’s history. Politically, it benefits premiers to position themselves as defenders against federal overreach, while the federal government aims to portray itself as safeguarding the federation from self-serving provinces.
The ongoing clash between Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau transcends the usual regional sparring. The very fabric of Canada’s economy and unity is on the line.
Trudeau has been attempting to rally a united front with the premiers, forming a “Team Canada” to negotiate with Trump. Conversely, Smith has taken a unilateral approach, engaging with state governors and Trump directly. While both approaches have merits, failure to collaborate could prolong the trade war unnecessarily.
Trudeau faces limited options in retaliating against the U.S. in a trade war. Energy products present the most immediate leverage that could impact American consumers. Disrupting exports or imposing tariffs could trigger price hikes, prompting pressure on Trump to negotiate with Canada swiftly. Tangible effects on citizens’ wallets often expedite political action. Will Trudeau risk fracturing Canadian unity by intervening in Alberta’s economy?
The optimal outcome for Alberta and Canada is mutual understanding and collaboration between Trudeau and Smith to prevent a trade war. Despite the seeming improbability of such cooperation, it is imperative for the well-being of all Canadians. The economic peril facing Canada outweighs personal pride or political gains.
If Smith manages to secure exemptions for oil and gas products from tariffs in negotiations with American counterparts, Alberta’s economy will be shielded but other provinces may suffer under export duties. This would intensify pressure on the federal government to intervene. Alternatively, failure to secure exemptions would spell hardship for Alberta. Neither scenario bodes well.
While private negotiations might breed suspicion among the public, a closed-door meeting between Smith and Trudeau could be vital. Setting aside public posturing, they could brainstorm solutions to the imminent crises. Should Canadian energy products be used as leverage against Trump, it should encompass hydro-electric exports from Quebec and the Maritime provinces, not solely targeting Alberta. Publicly mulling over such strategies could incite chaos across the provinces. However, swift private implementation could mitigate the length and cost of a potential trade war.
Without a unified response to incoming tariffs, Canada faces prolonged conflict. Although the concept of a “Team Canada” approach sounds appealing, unity with ten premiers simultaneously is unattainable.
Trudeau is nearing the end of his political tenure. Resolving a trade war during his final months would be a significant legacy. To achieve this, he must find common ground with Danielle Smith. Similarly, Smith must be open to cooperation with Trudeau, at least on this issue.
If blanket tariffs hit Canadian goods, leaders will be compelled to collaborate swiftly. Conversely, a collaborative effort between Trudeau and Smith could proactively shape Canada’s response, rather than reacting to external pressures. A unified front between Team Trudeau and Smith, though unconventional, holds promise in politics’ unpredictable landscape.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.