Critics argue that the federal government's response to both the Alberta separatist movement and the U.S. trade situation has been insufficient and reactive. In Alberta, the rise of the independence movement is viewed by many as a direct consequence of years of federal policies that have alienated Western Canadians, particularly in the energy sector. Skeptics contend that simply waiting for legal processes to play out or offering occasional, late-stage infrastructure partnerships does not address the fundamental lack of trust between the province and Ottawa. Without a more proactive and comprehensive strategy to address regional grievances, the government risks allowing the separatist sentiment to become a permanent fixture of the political landscape.
On the international front, the failure to secure a renewal of CUSMA is seen by some as a significant diplomatic setback that leaves Canadian businesses in a state of prolonged uncertainty. Critics suggest that the government's reliance on formal submissions and standard diplomatic channels may be inadequate when dealing with the current U.S. administration's transactional and often unpredictable approach to trade. There is concern that the annual review process will be used as a recurring lever to extract concessions from Canada, potentially damaging key industries like steel, aluminum, and energy. By failing to articulate a more robust or alternative trade strategy, the government may be leaving the Canadian economy vulnerable to ongoing pressure and potential future tariffs.