Local MLA in cross border trade talks during annual U.S. economic summit

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on February 11, 2026.

Justin Wright, MLA Cypress-Medicine Hat, will wrap up talks today with U.S. legislators and officials at the 2026 Pacific NorthWest Economic Region’s annual summit in Salem, Ore.

Wright and Brandon Lunty, MLA Leduc-Beaumont, will travel back to the province tomorrow after attending the PNWER summit to meet lawmakers and business leaders and advocate the province’s ag trade sectors and energy collaborations.

The pair flew into Oregon on Sunday and began meeting with southern counterparts and attended the summit, which was founded in 1991 to advance economic wellbeing and quality of life and common interests of its 10 member jurisdictions.

Recently at the end of January, Wright also attended an economic forum held by the PNWER in Juneau, Alaska with Garth Rowswell, MLA Vermilion-Lloydminister-Wainwright.

“It’s vital to be on the ground, building relationships in key U.S states,” said Wright. “Engaging face to face with legislators keeps Alberta top of mind and gives us a stronger voice as we promote our province as a leader in providing energy through these lasting partnerships.”

Wright says the timing of the trips is vital as later this year there will be a formal assessment of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico agreement that was initially signed in 2018.

“With the upcoming CUSMA review and ongoing work to strengthen economic corridors with the U.S., these connections are more important than ever.”

The pair of MLAs began meeting with U.S. legislators and officials Sunday, carrying out meetings as part of the PNWER visit Monday, Tuesday and early Wednesday before flying back to Alberta later today.

According to data from the government, bilateral trade between Alberta and Oregon in 2024 totalled more than $1.3 billion, with the majority related to energy, forestry, agriculture and manufacturing.

This summer Edmonton will welcome member states and provinces to host the 2026 PNWER Annual Summit from July 19-23.

The PNWER 10 member jurisdictions are Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Washington, B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Yukon and Northwest Territories.

All travel expenses will be posted on the province’s Travel and Expense disclose page.