Premier Danielle Smith is heading to Washington, D.C., from January 18–23 to cement Alberta’s role as a leader in North American energy security.

Smith will meet U.S. governors, Congress members, and industry leaders to promote Alberta’s $100 billion in annual energy exports as a cornerstone of U.S. economic prosperity.

Her trip follows growing threats of tariffs on Canadian goods, and Smith is determined to ensure Alberta isn’t penalized for Ottawa’s failures.

“Given the serious threats of tariffs, it is imperative that we do everything we can to engage directly with the incoming administration, members of Congress, and key officials to emphasize Alberta’s critical role in North American energy security and economic prosperity.

In all my meetings and events in Washington, D.C., I will work to ensure Alberta is recognized as a partner of choice for establishing North American energy security, to reinforce our century-long friendship, and to further solidify our trade relationship, which greatly benefits both Americans and Canadians.” — Premier Danielle Smith

Liberals—and even Doug Ford—have criticized Smith for prioritizing Alberta’s interests over waiting for a national consensus, but she remains unapologetic.

Smith will attend President Trump’s inauguration and participate in high-profile events hosted by the Canadian Embassy and Republican governors.

She plans to highlight Alberta’s energy, agriculture, and tech sectors as solutions to U.S. security and supply chain concerns.

The “Alberta is the Answer” campaign, targeting U.S. decision-makers, underscores Alberta’s unmatched ability to deliver reliable energy.

Smith’s mission is clear: Alberta must be recognized as a critical partner, no matter how much it angers central Canadian politicians.

By engaging directly with U.S. leaders, Smith is protecting Alberta’s economic future and ensuring the province isn’t sidelined by federal inaction.