Danielle Smith to Attend Trump's Inauguration

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith will attend the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, having secured tickets to the Capitol event after initially planning to attend a gathering at the Canadian Embassy. Smith's visit comes amid Trump's threats to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods unless stricter measures against illegal immigration are enacted. In response, Alberta has launched a $29 million initiative to enhance border security, including the creation of an Interdiction Patrol Team. Smith opposes tariffs, arguing they would harm both Canadian and American households and plans to advocate for the importance of Alberta's oil and gas in U.S. energy security discussions. Following the inauguration, she intends to meet with U.S. energy leaders and lawmakers to strengthen trade relations. The visit underscores Alberta's critical role in U.S. energy imports, with 97% of Canada's crude oil exported to the U.S.