September 1, 2026· Western Standard
Keith Wilson: Threatening Alberta Oil in a Trade War Shows 'What Is Wrong With Canada'
Independence advocate Keith Wilson argues Ottawa's ability to tax Alberta oil exports as trade-war leverage — over the province's objections — is itself the argument for leaving Canada.
Leading Alberta independence advocate Keith Wilson K.C. argues that the prospect of Ottawa using Alberta's oil as a bargaining chip in Canada's trade war with the United States — imposing an export tax to shield Ontario and Quebec, and able to do so regardless of Premier Danielle Smith's objections — is itself the case for leaving Canada. He warns such a tax would cost roughly 100,000 jobs and wipe out the province's main revenue stream.
Wilson also questions whether Prime Minister Mark Carney is holding off only until after the October 19 referendum, and contends a weak independence vote would leave Alberta without the leverage to resist.