Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is taking Canada's case directly to American audiences, appearing on Fox Business Network Monday to push back against the Trump administration's aggressive trade stance and bizarre territorial rhetoric.
When asked about the U.S. president's recent move to rebrand Lake Ontario as "Lake America," Smith's response was blunt: "Canadians are confused. I think they're disappointed."
The premier emphasized the bewilderment felt across Canada, particularly given the two nations' deeply intertwined military and economic history. She pointed to Canadian forces fighting alongside Americans in Afghanistan and the upcoming 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks as reminders of their shared commitment.
"We don't understand why the Americans would want Canada to be weaker. I think we're stronger together," Smith said during the television appearance.
Tariffs Taking a Toll on Both Sides
The tension between the two countries escalated dramatically when the United States imposed 50 per cent tariffs on billions of dollars in Canadian exports starting August 22, following the collapse of trade negotiations. Canada responded with its own retaliatory tariffs scheduled to begin September 8.
Smith warned that the ongoing dispute threatens small businesses and jobs on both sides of the border, a reality that should concern policymakers in both nations. The premier has been consistent in her messaging: the trade war helps no one.
Alberta's Oil and Gas: Not a Bargaining Chip
Despite growing pressure from other provincial leaders—including Ontario Premier Doug Ford—to put everything on the negotiating table, Smith firmly rejected using Alberta's oil and gas exports as leverage in trade talks. The province's energy sector remains off limits as a bargaining tool, she insisted.
"Canadians are really hopeful that we can get back to the table—just talk about the outstanding issues, resolve them. We came very close to a deal," Smith told her American audience, her message a clear appeal for cooler heads and serious diplomacy.
Smith isn't alone in making the media rounds. Ford has also appeared on CNN to discuss the trade tensions, though his recent exchanges with Trump have become increasingly heated. Both Canadian leaders are attempting to shape American public opinion and pressure the administration toward negotiations.
As the trade war drags on, ordinary Canadians and Americans—particularly those working in cross-border industries—continue to feel the financial pressure. Whether Smith's direct appeal to American viewers will shift the needle remains to be seen, but it signals Canada's determination to make its voice heard in the dispute.
This article is based on reporting from Global Calgary.