'Despicable': NDP calls on Danielle Smith to cancel appearance with Ben Shapiro

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is facing calls to cancel a speaking appearance with conservative media personality Ben Shapiro at a fundraiser for Florida-based PragerU.

PragerU, a conservative content company, describes itself as an educational media platform devoted to furthering U.S. values.

Its content, which a number of U.S. states have approved for use in schools, has been criticized for downplaying the harms of slavery and climate change while distorting historic events.

Shapiro has referred to Canada as the 51st state of the U.S., but he has also said it is "not a wise move" to treat Canada as a threat to its southern neighbour.

According to PragerU's website, Smith is to appear with Shapiro at an "East Coast Gala" in Florida on March 27. Tickets are being sold for US$1,500.

Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi said Monday it would be "despicable" for the United Conservative Party premier to speak at the fundraiser and called on her to cancel.

"These are not the kind of people that Albertans want her associating with," Nenshi told reporters. "She may feel comfortable in right wing extremist places, but right now we need a grown up government."

Sam Blackett, Smith's press secretary, said in a statement that the event gives the premier an opportunity to share Canada's message as the trade war between the two countries continues.

"Ben Shapiro has millions of followers on social media, strong connections within President Donald Trump's administration, and believes the U.S. should lower tariffs on Canada," Blackett said.

"At this event, the premier will be able to share Alberta and Canada's message with an active, engaged and influential U.S. audience amidst the ongoing trade war."

Last week, the U.S. president imposed sweeping 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods, along with a 10 per cent levy on energy products, only to announce carve outs on a range of goods two days later.

Canada and the provinces introduced retaliatory trade measures in response. Alberta paused purchases of American alcohol and is aiming to award government contracts to Canadian companies over U.S. ones.

Smith's travel expenses for the Florida fundraiser are to be paid for with taxpayer dollars, Blackett added, as it's considered an advocacy trip.

Nenshi said the trip, at a time when many Canadians are trying to keep their money within the country's borders, sends the wrong message to Albertans.

“This American speaking tour won’t reduce Trump tariffs, but it will send a signal to Albertans that Danielle Smith is focused on her extremist base, not on them," Nenshi said.

“Danielle Smith should cancel this event immediately and focus on Albertans’ priorities, not those of her extremist friends.”

Thumbnail photo credit: X/Ben Shapiro/Daily Wire