Edmonton (Rajeev Sharma): Public anger toward Alberta’s government has escalated as protests and calls for accountability grow across the province, targeting Premier Danielle Smith over health care, education and governance issues. Demonstrations have been held outside constituency offices and in major cities, with organizers accusing the government of ignoring frontline crises while pursuing divisive political agendas.
“We feel abandoned,” said one protester in Edmonton. “Hospitals are overflowing, classrooms are packed, and the government keeps talking about politics instead of people.”
Health care has emerged as a central flashpoint. Alberta continues to face emergency room overcrowding, staff shortages and long wait times for surgeries and specialist care. Doctors’ groups and health advocates have warned that recruitment and retention remain critical problems, while patients report delays in accessing basic services.
“I waited nearly 14 hours in emergency with my elderly mother,” said a Calgary resident. “This is not the health system Albertans were promised.”
Education has also fueled public frustration. Contract disputes with teachers and rising class sizes have triggered widespread concern among parents and school boards. Surveys conducted during labour disputes showed a majority of Albertans siding with teachers over government positions, citing underfunded classrooms and insufficient support for students with complex needs.
“Our kids are in overcrowded classrooms with fewer supports,” said a parent from Red Deer. “Teachers are burning out, and students are paying the price.”
The premier has also faced scrutiny over ethics and governance. Alberta’s ethics commissioner previously found Smith violated conflict-of-interest rules related to her communications with the justice minister regarding COVID-related prosecutions, a finding that intensified criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups. Additional controversy has surrounded procurement decisions and government communications with health-care administrators, raising questions about transparency.
“This isn’t just about policy anymore, it’s about trust,” said a protest organizer. “Albertans deserve leadership that follows the rules and puts the public first.”
Despite mounting pressure, Smith has defended her policies as necessary reforms and has accused opponents of politicizing challenges tied to population growth and fiscal pressures. Her government has instead advanced plans for constitutional and policy referendums, moves critics say distract from urgent problems in hospitals and schools.
“She’s talking about referendums while we’re talking about survival,” said a nurse who attended a rally in Lethbridge.
Protest organizers warn that further demonstrations are planned if meaningful action is not taken. While no official mechanism exists to force a premier’s resignation outside of an election or caucus revolt, the growing scale of public dissent reflects deep dissatisfaction and signals a volatile political climate ahead for Alberta’s government.
“This is just the beginning,” an organizer said. “If nothing changes, the protests will only get bigger.”
