Smith defends Ottawa energy deal at UCP convention

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith walked a thin line at this weekend’s annual United Conservative convention trying to appease the pro-independence grassroots base of her party while simultaneously touting a new energy deal with her frequent foes in Ottawa.

While the she faced loud boos attempting to sell her energy accord with Prime Minister Mark Carney on Friday, and a combination of cheers and jeers when she asked the crowd to “not give up on our country” in her speech on Saturday, the Premier believes she won some of the party faithful over.