You know things are getting a bit desperate when a politician starts cutting $100 “affordability” cheques to buy back a bit of political goodwill. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s decision to pass on a slice of the province's recent gas tax windfall directly to residents smacks of a payoff, and a paltry one at that. 

About 3.4 million adults, in households where the combined income is $225,000 or less, will be eligible to apply. Smith has justified the move as an alternative to lowering gas taxes, which she says doesn’t always result in lower prices at the station.

Oil supply disruptions caused by the US and Israel war against Iran upped gas prices by as much as 40 per cent in Alberta over the last four months. Although a peace deal signed by the US and Iran this week eased prices somewhat, economists predict they won’t return to regular levels anytime soon.

Gas price increases hit hardest in car-dependent rural areas, which also happens to be where Smith draws her support. Not to belittle the financial stress that high gas prices and cost of living in general is causing many families,........

© National Observer