Alberta Next Panel hosts heated event in Edmonton

Aug 15, 2025 | 9:12 AM

A panel collecting public feedback on Alberta’s grievances with the federal government struggled to keep an emotionally-charged crowd on topic at its third summer town hall.

Premier Danielle Smith and members of her Alberta Next panel drew their biggest crowd yet — nearly 750 people — in Edmonton.

The aim of the town halls is to brainstorm possible future referendum questions.

But outrage in the room on Thursday night spilled over into anger, F-bombs, and challenges to Smith’s United Conservative Party government that weren’t on the agenda.

When asked why the provincial government recently removed a requirement to release receipts for expense claims over 100-dollars, Smith said something went awry.

She says her government is looking into it and might reverse the policy.

Two earlier events were held last month in Red Deer and Edmonton.

All three drew protesters at the gates, while inside, there were dismissals of the panel as a self-serving political exercise meant to stir up discontent and division.

It is now set to host events in Fort McMurray and Lloydminster in two weeks.

(The Canadian Press)

by The Canadian Press