The provincial government’s move to limit who can and can’t run for public office has raised serious questions about democratic principles in Alberta. As someone who’s covered elections across this province for over a decade, I’ve never seen legislation quite like Bill 20.
Last week, Premier Danielle Smith’s UCP government introduced the Election Candidates Eligibility Act, which would bar certain individuals from running as candidates in provincial elections. The bill specifically targets those convicted of indictable offenses with sentences of five years or more, along with those convicted of sexual offenses.
While preventing serious offenders from seeking office might seem reasonable on the surface, political scientists and opposition members are sounding alarms about potential overreach and constitutional concerns.
“This legislation creates a slippery slope where the government of the day can decide who can and cannot participate in our democracy,” said NDP leader Rachel Notley during question period. I was there as she pressed the premier on what many view as an unprecedented restriction.
The bill’s timing has raised eyebrows across Calgary’s political circles. Just months after winning a majority government, the UCP appears focused on tightening electoral rules rather than addressing pressing economic concerns many Albertans face daily.
Justice Minister Mickey Amery defended the legislation, telling reporters, “We’re ensuring that those who make laws for Albertans meet a basic standard of conduct.” But critics counter that voters, not governments, should determine who represents them.
Lisa Young, a political scientist at the University of Calgary, expressed concern when I spoke with her yesterday. “Democratic systems typically leave it to voters to decide who should represent them. This creates a troubling precedent where governments can potentially limit political participation.”
The bill also introduces new eligibility requirements for candidates, including Canadian citizenship and Alberta residency. These provisions appear less controversial, reflecting standards already in place in many jurisdictions.
What’s striking about this legislation is how it differs from other provinces. While Quebec and Manitoba have some restrictions for candidates with criminal convictions, Alberta’s proposed law goes further in several respects.
“The constitution guarantees democratic rights, including the right to run for office,” noted constitutional lawyer James Boyle. “Any limitation must be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.”
Walking through downtown Calgary yesterday, I found mixed reactions from residents. John Templeton, a small business owner, told me, “I don’t want criminals making laws,” while university student Emma Rodriguez countered, “Shouldn’t we let voters decide who represents them?”
The global context adds another dimension. Democratic backsliding has become a concerning trend worldwide, with governments using seemingly reasonable measures to gradually restrict political participation.
Premier Smith has insisted the bill protects the integrity of Alberta’s democracy. “Albertans deserve representatives who uphold the highest standards,” she stated at last Thursday’s press conference.
The legislation comes amid broader UCP efforts to reshape Alberta’s political landscape, including controversial changes to school policies and healthcare governance. Critics see the candidate eligibility bill as part of a pattern of centralizing power.
As this bill moves through the legislature, the fundamental question remains: who should decide who can represent Albertans – the government or the voters? The answer will shape our provincial democracy for years to come.
Global News reports the bill is expected to pass given the UCP’s majority, but court challenges seem almost certain to follow.
