Prime Minister Mark Carney is taking steps to ensure that no Conservative government gains power in British Columbia. Recently, NDP Premier David Eby received significant support from the federal government, with four major project approvals, including two announced this week. In contrast, Alberta has only one project approved—the Pathways initiative—and none in the latest round of announcements.

Carney's announcement came in Terrace, British Columbia, just two days before Eby faces a leadership review in Victoria. The timing has raised eyebrows, as the prime minister could have made similar announcements in other provinces like Quebec or Ontario, which also received project approvals. Eby’s government is in a precarious position, holding just one more seat than the combined Conservatives and Greens, who have only two seats.

Political analysts suggest that Eby could be in trouble if he receives less than 70 percent support in the upcoming review. The situation is further complicated by the recent end of the longest public service strike in B.C. history, which saw the British Columbia General Employees Union accept a new contract. The unions, which hold significant influence within the NDP, are not entirely satisfied with the outcome.

The federal government’s support for B.C. projects is expected to significantly boost the provincial economy. The most notable project is the Ksi Lisims LNG initiative, projected to attract $30 billion in investment and nearly double Canada’s LNG production. Additionally, the North Coast electricity transmission line, a major project aimed at fostering development in the province's northwest, has also received backing. The Canada Infrastructure Bank has already provided a $139.5 million loan to BC Hydro for this initiative.

In September, Ottawa approved the Red Chris copper and gold mine in B.C.'s Golden Triangle region, which is rich in minerals. There was also support for Phase 2 of LNG Canada in Kitimat, which is expected to double the region's export capacity. These federal approvals are designed to expedite permits and timelines, signaling that private investment will not be jeopardized by unpredictable government actions.

While Eby benefits from these federal projects, he has been critical of Alberta's push for a bitumen pipeline and the repeal of Ottawa’s north coast tanker ban, stating there is "no plan, no project, no chance" for such initiatives as long as he is in office. This stance serves as a strategic message for his party members ahead of the leadership review.

In Alberta, Premier Danielle Smith received approval for the Pathways project focused on carbon capture, storage, and use. While this is a significant development, it falls short of her demands for federal support for pipelines and the repeal of restrictive laws. Smith had hoped for a deal with Ottawa by the Grey Cup weekend but did not achieve that goal. Her response has been notably subdued, as she stated, "The projects notified today, including those in British Columbia’s Golden Triangle and clean energy sectors, will create thousands of good-paying jobs, attract investment and support Indigenous communities through meaningful partnerships."

Smith's comments reflect a willingness to collaborate, as she acknowledged the importance of the B.C. projects, which also benefit Alberta producers. However, if negotiations with Ottawa falter, she is likely to renew her criticisms. Meanwhile, Eby has secured substantial federal support for his province, positioning him favorably as he navigates the upcoming leadership review.