Opposition leaders question N.S. cabinet minister’s trip to Trump inauguration

Nova Scotia’s Minister of Opportunities and Social Development, Scott Armstrong, recently attended the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump in January. While Armstrong believed it was important to be present at such a significant event, opposition leaders have raised questions about the lack of prior announcement and the actual benefits the public received from his trip.

During a session in the legislature, the Liberals brought attention to Armstrong’s trip, which took place from January 19-21. The total cost of the trip, including a return flight from Halifax to Washington and two nights at a Hilton hotel in Arlington, Va., amounted to $3,288.47.

Interim Liberal Leader Derek Mombourquette expressed his concerns, stating that Nova Scotians did not receive much in return for Armstrong’s trip. He questioned why the trip was not disclosed beforehand and why Armstrong was chosen to represent the province instead of the cabinet minister responsible for economic development or the premier, who oversees trade matters.

In response, Armstrong explained that his past international experience as a former member of parliament and his personal connection in South Carolina helped him secure a ticket to the inauguration. Despite not being able to attend the outdoor event due to bad weather, Armstrong spent the day engaging with industry leaders, members of congress, and state legislatures at the Canadian embassy.

Furthermore, Armstrong highlighted the importance of sharing Canada’s perspective on key issues, such as U.S. tariffs, with American officials and the public. He emphasized the need for Canadian representatives to leverage their contacts and opportunities to advocate for their interests effectively.

Opposition leader Claudia Chender criticized the lack of transparency surrounding Armstrong’s trip and suggested that he should have covered the expenses himself. Meanwhile, Premier Tim Houston has been actively lobbying the Trump administration to reconsider tariffs on Canadian goods through multiple trips to the U.S.

In his most recent visit, Houston met with business officials in New York and attended a major seafood show in Boston, accompanied by Provincial Fisheries Minister Kent Smith. The province is grappling with the implications of American tariffs and the looming threat of additional tariffs from China on live lobster and other products.

Overall, while Armstrong’s attendance at the inauguration raised questions about transparency and costs, the government’s efforts to advocate for Nova Scotia’s interests in the face of trade challenges remain a priority.

For more information, you can visit the original article on CBC.ca.