Is Danielle Smith the Most Powerful Politician in Canada? | The Walrus

"In January, Alberta premier Danielle Smith issued an extraordinary threat. Unless Prime Minister Mark Carney gave Alberta more influence over judicial appointments, her government would withhold funding from the courts. In an open letter, Smith argued she wanted judges who reflected Alberta's "distinct legal traditions"-though what those traditions are is unclear."

"Since becoming premier in 2022, Smith has made it her mission to carve out greater independence for the province, and her demands are only getting bolder. Her Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act, passed in December 2022, allows the province to refuse to enforce certain federal laws it considers harmful to Alberta."

"On February 19, Smith unveiled a slate of referendum questions for an October vote aimed at expanding provincial autonomy. She proposes unilaterally tightening immigration and access to services in Alberta-restricting benefits for temporary residents and requiring proof of citizenship to vote. These powers aren't exclusively within the purview of the province, but immigration lawyer Randy Hahn told the Globe and Mail Smith's position should be understood as a "negotiating tactic.""

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has escalated her push for provincial independence since 2022, threatening to withhold court funding unless the federal government grants Alberta greater influence over judicial appointments. Smith argues for judges reflecting Alberta's distinct legal traditions, though these remain undefined. Her Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act, passed in December 2022, allows the province to refuse enforcing certain federal laws deemed harmful. In February, Smith unveiled referendum questions for an October vote proposing expanded autonomy, including unilateral immigration restrictions, proof-of-citizenship voting requirements, and constitutional changes shifting power from Parliament to provinces. Legal experts characterize these positions as negotiating tactics rather than enforceable policy.

Read at The Walrus