July 24, 2026:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Edmonton, AB – Naheed Nenshi and the Alberta NDP think we should threaten the U.S. with an export tax on Alberta oil and gas headed south to create leverage during trade negotiations – a move that would put hundreds of thousands of Albertans out of work overnight and threaten the province’s entire energy industry.
At a presser yesterday morning, Nenshi refused to rule out using an export tax on energy as a negotiating tool if he were premier amid the latest tariff talks at the Council of the Federation meeting in Charlottetown, where Premier Danielle Smith continued to represent the best interests of Albertans and western Canada’s oil and gas sector.
“Good paying jobs, world-class investments, our entire provincial economy – all of that would be at risk with an export tax on Alberta oil and gas,” said Chief Government Whip Brandon Lunty. “It’s clear that Naheed Nenshi would happily sell Alberta out for a gold star from the economically illiterate left. Danielle Smith will always advocate for Albertans and our energy industry, that’s why she is this province’s Premier – not Naheed Nenshi.”
Meanwhile, Nenshi and the Alberta NDP couldn’t be more aligned with their new boss Avi Lewis, who in a recent statement called for the federal government “to be prepared to fight [the U.S.] with counter-tariffs and put every dollar behind supporting workers in affected sectors.” Lewis has also called for a complete phase out of all fossil fuels.
“United Conservatives know the best way to support workers is to build a strong economy with strong sectors that create meaningful jobs – not throwing around threats of counter-tariffs,” said Lunty.
While Naheed Nenshi and the Alberta NDP continue to pander to their woke left base, United Conservatives are focused on diplomacy and ensuring a strong energy sector for Alberta and Canada.
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