
Premier Danielle Smith goes to Washington: Inside Alberta’s charm offensive to Trump’s tariffs
WASHINGTON, D.C. — As thousands rallied against incoming U.S. President Donald Trump with a “peace tank” on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith flew in to a chilled, subdued inauguration, bringing a message of “unprecedented opportunity.”
It was the apex of a controversial week for Smith, who in recent days met with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida and then clashed with her fellow premiers, refusing to sign a “joint declaration of unity” in the face of a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian products promised by Trump.
Championing Alberta as the largest exporter of oil and gas to the U.S., Smith said she’s highlighting an opportunity for Alberta to work collaboratively with the new administration to develop secure supply chains and strengthen energy security for the U.S. and Canada.
The U.S. is Alberta’s largest trading partner. In 2023, Alberta’s exports to its southern neighbour totalled US$115.6 billion, accounting for about 90 per cent of total provincial exports. Of that, energy products accounted for about US$94.4 billion.
Boots on the ground — and at the ball
The traditional outdoor inauguration on the Capitol steps and ensuing inauguration parade scheduled for Monday were cancelled amid Alberta-style temperatures.
Security tightened by the hour around the U.S. Capitol and the White House, with the oath-of-office ceremony moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda.
Despite the chill, Smith waded into the D.C. milieu, buoyed by a loaded schedule and plans to connect with governors, members of Congress and private sector leaders during a five-day visit.
She declined interviews and photo requests on Sunday, but in a media release said Alberta’s on-the-ground presence is expected to build relationships and start critical conversations. The idea is to lay the groundwork for collaboration and reap benefits for Albertans, Canadians and Americans, she said.