Scott Moe and the rest of Canada’s premiers are vowing to stand together in the fight against possible tariffs from the incoming Donald Trump administration.
Trump threatened a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian and Mexican goods if both countries do not strengthen security at their borders with the U.S.
The premiers made the pledge to work as one on Wednesday following a meeting with Justin Trudeau.
However, there was some division over whether Canadian energy exports should be used as a possible retaliatory measure.
Canada is the top oil supplier to the United States, accounting for 20 per cent of what Americans use. Provinces like Saskatchewan and Alberta would be the hardest hit if the federal government were to impost export restrictions to the U.S.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith did not sign a joint statement issued by the premiers following the Ottawa conference. Scott Moe meanwhile held back on public criticism of Trudeau.
“We may have policy disagreements from time to time, but there’s things that we do agree on and there’s times that we have to come together to represent what is in the best interest for all Canadians and we in Saskatchewan, we continue to be Canadians,” Moe said.
Trudeau recognized Moe’s show of support and noted that it’s not often seen.
“First of all, I want to thank Scott for that answer. It’s rare that I get such support,” Trudeau said.
Trudeau also hinted that there could be compensation for industries and regions hardest hit by retaliatory measures should Trump follow through with his tariff threat. The premiers are now waiting to find out what Trump does when he becomes president on Monday.
