Politics

Alberta Premier Smith says U.S. midterm results 'vindicate' her approach to tariffs

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The U.S. midterm elections were swept by the Democrats and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's popularity has taken a hit according to a new poll.

EDMONTON — Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says sweeping Democrat wins in the U.S. midterm elections are a vindication of her approach to the cross-border trade war.

Smith says her government has always opposed tariffs and the harms they cause on both sides of the border.

Premier Danielle Smith speaks during a provincewide broadcast and livestream on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026. Premier Danielle Smith speaks during a provincewide broadcast and livestream on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026.

The Democrats on Tuesday took control of both houses of Congress and flipped long-held Republican Senate seats and state-level positions.

The results are seen as a widespread rebuke of President Donald Trump and his policies, including his treatment of trading partners like Canada.

Smith says she hopes the midterm results are an opportunity to improve the relationship between Canada and the U.S.

As a result of the ongoing trade dispute, her government also announced a new policy today that it would be prioritizing Albertan and Canadian companies for small government contracts.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 4, 2026.

Jack Farrell, The Canadian Press