Premier Moe faces criticism over taxpayer-funded Lindsey Graham funeral trip

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe is under fire from the opposition for attending the funeral of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, with critics demanding transparency regarding the cost to taxpayers.

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People have questions now. It's about what their money is being used for.

NDP critic Kim Breckner has formally requested the provincial government disclose the total expenses and a breakdown of costs associated with Moe's trip to Washington, D.C. Breckner questioned the use of public funds for the funeral, citing Graham's past political stances, including his support for Donald Trump and comments about Canada.

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We are concerned about public funds being used to do this. I don’t believe that Saskatchewan’s presence as a dignitary is required for somebody who took this position against Canada.

"People have questions now. It's about what their money is being used for," Breckner stated. She argued that attending the funeral was not an appropriate use of public funds, especially given pressing domestic issues in Saskatchewan, such as potential strike action by healthcare workers.

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If Premier Moe and Senator Graham did have a personal relationship, then by all means Premier Moe should attend on his own dime.

The Saskatchewan government defended Moe's attendance, asserting that he traveled in his capacity as premier. A statement indicated that Moe used the trip to advocate for provincial interests and a free-trade relationship with the United States, meeting with Canadian Ambassador to the U.S. Mark Wiseman. The province stated Moe joined federal representatives, including Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc, at the funeral.

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Mr. Graham was one of Donald Trump’s closest allies and endorsed his strategy to dismantle the Canadian economy. Just last week, Trump announced more tariffs that will kill more jobs in Saskatchewan. We must show strength. We must stand as Team Canada.