Former Liberal Prime Minister Jean Chrétien has criticized Alberta Premier Danielle Smith for her inconsistent approach to federal relations. In an interview with CBC’s *The House*, Chrétien stated that Smith “cannot double-talk all the time” regarding her demands from Ottawa. He pointed out that while Smith seeks federal intervention in British Columbia to support Alberta, she simultaneously opposes federal assistance for Alberta that would benefit the rest of Canada.

“Now she wants the federal government to intervene in B.C. to help Alberta, but don’t do anything in Alberta to help the rest of Canada,” Chrétien remarked. He made these comments shortly after a dispute between Smith and B.C. Premier David Eby over Alberta's plan to submit a pipeline proposal to the federal Major Projects Office next spring. Smith argues that Alberta must take the lead on the project because private companies are hesitant to invest due to existing federal regulations, including the 2019 restrictions on oil tankers in northern B.C. waters.

The separatist movement in Alberta gained momentum recently, with thousands attending a rally in Edmonton to support a potential referendum on Alberta's independence from Canada. Sam Samson, a rally participant, expressed strong support for the movement.

Alberta has urged the federal government to lift the tanker ban and reconsider proposed emissions caps and clean electricity regulations. Last month, the province announced plans to introduce legislation that would allow it to disregard international agreements made by Ottawa. Eby has consistently opposed Alberta's pipeline proposal, labeling it “not a real project” and asserting that it jeopardizes infrastructure initiatives supported by local First Nations.

Smith has framed the pipeline proposal as a critical test of Canada’s unity, arguing that other provinces can export their resources while Alberta faces restrictions. Chrétien dismissed Smith's claims, stating that Alberta is not alone in the country and that it has never sold as much oil as it does now. “You know, you’re not alone in a country. You live with other provinces, we’re all Canadians, and the values of Canada says we’re able to share,” he said.

A June forecast from S&P Global Commodity Insights indicated that oilsands production is expected to reach an all-time high this year, with a projected five percent increase in production in northern Alberta by 2025.

Tensions between Alberta and B.C. have escalated over the proposed oil pipeline, with Smith accusing Eby of being “un-Canadian” and Eby countering that Smith is promoting a fictional project.

Regarding the possibility of Alberta separating from Canada, the province has not confirmed plans for a referendum, even as various groups debate potential questions. Chrétien advised Alberta separatists to familiarize themselves with the Clarity Act, which outlines the process for any province seeking to secede from Canada.

Under the Clarity Act, a province must formulate a clear referendum question, which the House of Commons can reject if it does not accurately reflect the will of the people. “It’s not just like posting a letter…. It is very complicated now. The question has to be approved by the Parliament of Canada. It has to be a clear majority,” Chrétien explained.

In the same interview, Chrétien also addressed U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policies and their implications for Canada. He expressed pride in having excluded Canada’s water from the North American Free Trade Agreement, emphasizing its importance for future generations.

Chrétien warned that Trump poses a threat to democracy, stating that the current U.S. administration “seems to run away from values” that previously defined the nation. He noted that while Trump may desire Canadian resources, negotiations are essential.

“Ambition is one thing, but it’s not available [for] free. You will have to negotiate,” he said. Chrétien also reflected on the renegotiation of NAFTA, now known as CUSMA, which is set for review next year. He cautioned that the erosion of the rule of law could lead to significant issues in the U.S. and emphasized the need for Canada to uphold its values in the face of challenges.