For two decades, Alberta has had strong representation in the United States, advocating for Albertans and building integral relationships with key U.S. legislators, decision makers and investors.
Through these relationships, Alberta and the U.S. have built a $187.2 billion bilateral trade partnership, with the U.S. accounting for 90 per cent of Alberta's total exports. To maintain and continue building these ties, it is essential that Alberta has a skilled and experienced representative in D.C.
To prioritize this work, Alberta’s government has appointed the Honourable Nathan Cooper as Alberta’s official representative to the United States, based at the Alberta Washington Office in the U.S. capital.
Mr. Cooper will draw on his decades of experience in public service, including his most recent experience as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, to lead this important work, focusing on attracting investment, expanding trade opportunities and maintaining the relationships needed to connect Alberta with key decision makers in the U.S.
“Alberta has seen a lot of success in building its relationship with U.S. decision makers, and much of that success is thanks to the hard work of James Rajotte as Alberta’s Senior Representative to the U.S. In this evolving landscape, Alberta must maintain and build on our ties with U.S. officials, and Nathan Cooper is the right choice to fill this important role. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Nathan as we advocate for Albertans and for our province’s interests in Washington and across the U.S.”
“I’m honoured to be entrusted by Premier Danielle Smith with this critical assignment at such a pivotal time. Now more than ever, I see this as a vital opportunity to strengthen and advance Alberta’s long-standing relationship with the United States, ensuring stability and collaboration amid global uncertainty.”
“Having worked closely with Nathan, I’ve seen his unwavering commitment to Alberta’s interests. His ability to bring people together, coupled with his deep understanding of U.S. politics, makes him the ideal representative for Alberta in Washington. I’m confident his leadership will be invaluable as we navigate challenges ahead.”
“As Speaker of the Assembly, Mr. Cooper is highly respected for his wisdom, integrity and ability to find common ground across parties. I cannot think of a better representative for Albertans in Washington.”
“Over the past few years, we have had the opportunity to work with Speaker Cooper on the Alberta - Wisconsin relationship and look forward to expanding that in his new role here in the United States. I am confident Nathan's extensive American connections will serve Alberta well as we seek to maintain our strong bilateral relationship.”
“As both a business and community leader, I have full confidence that Nathan will be an invaluable asset to businesses on both sides of the border. Given the complexities of today’s political climate, his ability to bridge divides and foster economic collaboration will prove indispensable.”
“Team Canada needs a strong Alberta in Washington, and Alberta needs strong representation for our trading interests. There might be some tough days ahead for the relationship between Canada and the United States, but I know Nathan Cooper will work hard for Albertans and a strong Canada.”
Since 2005, Alberta’s presence in the U.S. capital has helped advance the province’s economic objectives with U.S. decision makers. Alberta’s envoys have managed this important relationship from the Alberta Washington Office, which is collocated within the Canadian Embassy.
Biography for Nathan Cooper
The Honourable Nathan Cooper served as the member of the legislative assembly for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills from May 5, 2015 to May 7, 2025.
On May 21, 2019, he was elected by his fellow MLAs as the 14th Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta.
Before his time as an MLA, Mr. Cooper served as chief of staff and director of legislative affairs for the Wildrose caucus and completed two terms as a councillor for the Town of Carstairs. He also brings extensive experience in cross-jurisdictional parliamentary affairs, including:
- As the longest serving Canadian speaker he became dean of the Canadian Speaker Association in 2025.
- Leading numerous parliamentary delegations to the United States, with a strong focus on relationship-building.
- Serving as an international guest speaker at Commonwealth Parliamentary Association conferences in Canada and other Commonwealth nations.
Mr. Cooper’s proven leadership, deep understanding of parliamentary systems and commitment to building meaningful partnerships make him exceptionally well-suited to advance Alberta’s interests in the United States.
Quick facts
- James Rajotte, Alberta’s previous Senior Representative to the U.S. has returned to Edmonton after four and a half years representing Alberta in the United States. He continues to serve as a senior advisor to Premier Smith focused on the U.S. file, working out of Premier Smith’s office in Alberta.
- The salary for the senior representative to the U.S. is publicly disclosed annually in accordance with the Public Sector Compensation Transparency Act.
- Alberta has maintained offices abroad for more than 50 years and currently has 17 offices in key markets like the United States, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Mexico, India, Singapore and the Middle East.