June 9, 2024: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith stirred up excitement on social media platform X this Saturday, issuing a playful challenge to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis just hours before the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers faced off in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final.
Smith’s post read:
“Dear Governor @RonDeSantis, This is for all the marbles…the Stanley Cup. Our Edmonton Oilers are going to beat the Florida Panthers and when we do, would you send some of your finest Florida rum to Alberta to celebrate with? If by some miracle the Panthers win the series, then I will send some fine Alberta-made whiskey down to Florida. Do you agree?”
As of 2:47 p.m., Governor DeSantis had not yet responded to the challenge given by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.
The hockey game was set to start at 6 p.m. MST, with both teams ready to battle it out on the ice. Smith hopes to continue her successful run of sports-related wagers, having previously secured victories in bets with B.C. Premier David Eby and Texas Governor Greg Abbott are celebrating Oilers’ wins over the Canucks and the Dallas Stars, respectively.
The state of Florida is recognized for its burgeoning craft rum scene, a nod to its extensive sugarcane farming history.
As the Edmonton Oilers prepare to face the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Finals, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s challenge to Governor Ron DeSantis marks another moment where sports and politics intersect under her leadership.
This isn’t the first time Premier Smith has been in the sports spotlight; she recently shared a moment of camaraderie with BC’s Premier David Eby during the hockey playoffs. For more on their previous engagement, see how the hockey playoff brings BC’s premier, David Eby, and Alberta’s Premier, Danielle Smith.
Smith’s bold public stances extend beyond the rink. Amid rising tensions in educational settings, she has had to address significant political and social issues, such as the pro-Palestinian protests at universities. Read more about Smith’s response against Pro-Palestinian protests in universities.
Furthermore, as Alberta navigates through post-pandemic challenges, Premier Smith has faced calls from the public and health professionals to revisit COVID-19 vaccine policies for children.
Her tenure has also been marked by unexpected policy shifts, notably her recent transgender policies, which have surprised many, including her health advisory group. Smith’s new transgender policies surprised many health advisory groups.
Through these initiatives, Premier Smith continues to influence not just the political landscape but also Alberta’s cultural and social spheres.
For more information and updates, stay tuned to Y!Alberta.
