With President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” quickly approaching, Sask NDP Leader Carla Beck is calling on Premier Scott Moe’s Sask Party government to protect the province from potential economic turmoil.
Often described as a fresh wave of economic nationalism, “Liberation Day” has Saskatchewan exporters on edge.
Speaking to reporters, Beck accused the Sask Party of failing to prepare for what she called a “slow-moving train” of hardship.
Beck pointed to new data from Angus Reid showing Saskatchewan leads the nation in economic anxiety.
“With new data from Angus Reid showing Saskatchewan leads the country in economic anxiety, the need for leadership has never been greater,” said Beck.
“Yet, instead of taking action, this government has done nothing but sit back and wait to get run over.”
Trump has said that Canada will not be spared from its latest round of tariffs, targeting key Saskatchewan industries like agriculture, energy, and mining.
The Sask Party has not announced any concrete steps to protect workers, businesses, or farmers already burdened by existing trade barriers.
“Our economy is at risk. Our communities are at risk. People are going to bed tonight worried about their jobs, their families, and their future,” said Beck.
“The least their government could do is show them they’re fighting for them.”
Beck pointed out the province has also neglected basic retaliatory measures adopted by other regions, such as improving east-west infrastructure to ease trade.
Beck called this lack of a comprehensive plan further proof of complacency.
With “Liberation Day” looming, Beck demanded immediate action to support industries and communities likely to be hardest hit.
“Saskatchewan people deserve better,” said Beck.
“They deserve leadership. They deserve a government that puts their future first.”