Nenshi admits equalization unfair, blames Trump for other problems as independence storm-clouds grow
As calls for Alberta independence amplify, NDP leader Naheed Nenshi has accused Premier Danielle Smith of fostering division at a critical moment in Canadian history — although he agrees with her on several points.
In a video statement, Nenshi highlighted longstanding grievances, saying, “Certainly Albertans have not had the best deal from Confederation. I've never shied away from saying that equalization is not fair.”
The remarks follow the introduction of Alberta Bill 54, which simplifies organizing an independence referendum. The bill was tabled hours after Prime Minister Mark Carney’s federal election victory. Smith has warned of a national unity crisis if Ottawa continues to marginalize Alberta.
Nenshi emphasized his contributions, saying, “I worked so hard as Mayor of Calgary with the premier of Alberta to secure one pipeline (TMX) to tide water, and conservatives haven't been able to build one since.”
He noted Alberta lacks market access for its natural resources and respect for its “economic power” and “social innovation.” Nenshi stressed the need for federal collaboration amid external challenges, particularly with the United States.
“The fight today is with President Trump, and we cannot win that fight if we think the fight is with Ottawa, with our fellow Canadians, or with our fellow Albertans,” he said, criticizing Smith’s leadership.
“A premier who knows about nothing but division is not the premier we need. She blames others for dividing Alberta, but it's her, who's done it,” Nenshi added.
He urged constructive dialogue with Ottawa, warning that internal conflicts undermine Alberta’s position.
Smith has said Canada is not working for Alberta.
She recently announced, in the context of a possible citizen-led independence referendum, the formation of an upcoming "Alberta Next Panel," which she will chair, to engage in town halls and discuss Alberta's future within Canada, focusing on protecting the province from "hostile" federal policies.
Smith will appoint a "special negotiating team" to represent Alberta in negotiations with Ottawa on the following demands — a guaranteed resource corridor and port access to tidewater off the Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic coasts, and repealing the no new pipelines law, C-69, the oil tanker ban, net zero electricity regulations, the oil and gas emissions cap, the net zero vehicle mandate, and any federal law that tries to regulate industrial carbon emissions, plastics, or the "free speech" of energy companies.
Smith also said, the "federal government must refrain from imposing export taxes or restrictions on the export of Alberta resources without the consent of the Government of Alberta."
Also, Smith said Ottawa must provide Alberta the same federal transfers and equalization as received by the other three largest provinces — Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia.
