As the federal election looms tomorrow, April 28, 2025, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith remains out of sight, returning from a controversial trade mission in Asia. This absence has raised eyebrows among Conservative Party members and constituents alike, who are questioning her impact on the party’s prospects in the election. Smith’s recent actions have sparked criticism, particularly regarding her appearance at a fundraiser for the conservative organization PragerU, where she shared a stage with right-wing commentator Ben Shapiro.
Smith's trade mission took her across the Pacific, ostensibly to bolster Alberta's economic ties, but her timing could not be worse. As Independent Alberta MLA Peter Guthrie noted, her actions seem to have detracted from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's campaign efforts. "Premier Smith’s decisions have come at the expense of the CPC and Pierre Poilievre’s efforts to become Canada’s next prime minister," he stated last week. This sentiment is echoed among many Conservatives who fear that Smith's controversial choices may cost them votes.
Adding to the tension, Smith’s radio program, Your Province/Your Premier, was silent yesterday, April 26, 2025, leaving many to speculate about her whereabouts and the implications of her absence. The premier’s radio show has become a platform for her to voice her opinions, yet on this critical day, it was conspicuously absent. Critics argue that her silence is a strategy to avoid backlash as the election approaches.
Smith's recent trip to Florida for the PragerU fundraiser has stirred significant backlash, with many Albertans expressing their anger through emails. In a 20-hour span from March 8 to 9, her office received 159 emails, all opposing her appearance at the event. One email captured the sentiment of many constituents: “Premier Smith’s decision to visit Florida at this critical time feels, to many of us, tone-deaf and deeply unpatriotic.” Critics highlighted the use of taxpayer money for such a trip, particularly given Alberta's projected $5.2 billion deficit.
Some constituents felt "utterly betrayed" by Smith's actions, arguing that her presence at a U.S. far-right media event undermines Canadian interests. They noted that the funds spent on her trip could have been better allocated to address pressing economic and social challenges facing the province. Smith defended her appearance, claiming it provided a platform to share Alberta’s priorities with influential figures in the U.S.
Her critics, however, pointed out that PragerU, despite its name, is not an academic institution and has been criticized for promoting misleading narratives, particularly regarding climate change and social issues. “It is profoundly disappointing to know that our premier is spending time with these individuals who wouldn’t mind seeing our province turn into the 51st state and eliminate the Albertan identity,” one emailer remarked.
On her radio show following the event, Smith claimed that her appearance produced "exactly what we wanted to accomplish," suggesting that her discussions with Shapiro about tariffs were beneficial. However, just a week after her Florida trip, U.S. President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on Canadian goods, including a 25 percent levy, which many see as a direct response to the ongoing trade tensions.
Smith's relationship with Trump and her frequent visits to the U.S. have drawn sharp criticism from many Albertans. A recent CBC morning show highlighted the embarrassment felt by some respondents regarding her alignment with Trump's far-right agenda. The perception that Smith is undermining Canadian democracy has grown, with accusations that she and the United Conservative Party (UCP) are attempting to consolidate power and eliminate opposition.
For over 50 years, Alberta has been governed predominantly by conservative parties, and the UCP's current efforts to maintain control have led to claims of authoritarianism. Critics argue that Smith’s actions reflect an agenda that prioritizes her political survival over the needs of Albertans. The UCP’s approach has been likened to the tactics of authoritarian regimes, with some suggesting that Smith’s leadership style mirrors that of Trump.
As the election approaches, the stakes are high for Smith and the Conservative Party. With polls indicating a close race, her absence from the campaign trail could have significant ramifications. The federal election results may not only determine the future of Poilievre’s leadership but also the political landscape in Alberta.
In the days leading up to the election, many are left wondering whether Smith will make a last-minute appearance to rally support or if her absence will be a sign of her party's struggles. As the clock ticks down, the political climate in Alberta remains tense, with constituents eager for answers and clarity from their premier.
Ultimately, the election results will serve as a litmus test for Smith’s leadership and the direction of the Conservative Party in Canada. Will her controversial decisions and absence from the campaign trail cost Poilievre the election, or will Alberta voters rally behind her despite the criticisms? Only time will tell, but the implications of this election extend far beyond the ballot box.
