January 27, 2026
RED FM News Desk
Alberta’s top judges are pushing back after recent remarks by Premier Danielle Smith suggesting she would like greater influence over the courts.
In an uncommon joint statement, the province’s three chief justices emphasized that Canada’s democracy depends on the independence of its three branches of government and mutual respect for their distinct responsibilities.
A spokesperson for the Alberta Court of Justice said the statement was intended to clarify public misconceptions about the judiciary, but stopped short of directly attributing it to the premier’s comments.
Smith has repeatedly criticized what she describes as “activist” and “unelected” judges, arguing that court decisions are interfering with the authority of elected governments.
During her weekend radio program, Smith responded to a question about bail policies by saying she wishes she had the power to “direct” judges in their decisions.
She also indicated her government is in discussions with the federal government about playing a role in appointing new Court of King’s Bench judges, saying she wants future appointees to better align with what she described as Alberta’s values and expectations.
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