A sign opposing coal development in the Rocky Mountains in June 2021 amid a public outcry about Conservative proposals to lift a ban on coal mining in the Rockies.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
Alberta’s coal initiatives illustrate two dangerous trends in today’s democratic politics — the refusal to heed both the public and experts.
The United Conservative Party demonized the NDP’s proposals for a corporate tax rate increase during the recent provincial election campaign. But Calgary-based energy companies and other corporations have capitalized on tax rate decreases, firing workers instead of investing in them.
(Samson/Unsplash)
The conventional narrative on corporate tax increases relies on ‘zombie ideas’ that pander to corporate interests, harm the public interest and refuse to die.
Edmonton demonstrators gather to protest against COVID-19 measures and support the ‘freedom convoy’ in February 2022. Research suggests Alberta separatist sentiments have as much to do with antipathy about the federal government and Justin Trudeau as actually leaving Confederation.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson
Even though they lack the profile of Québec sovereigntists, Alberta separatists are positioned to exert significant political influence on intergovernmental relations in the years to come.
Alberta Premier Jason Kenney speaks in response to the results of the United Conservative Party leadership review in Calgary on May 18, 2022.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Dave Chidley
Alberta premiers can become era-defining personalities or quickly cast aside. Jason Kenney’s fall from grace is a vivid illustration of the volatility of the province’s political landscape.
