Story perspectives

Alberta Seeks Constitutional Change for Judicial Appointments

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

Alberta, led by Premier Danielle Smith (Alberta), asks Ottawa to amend the Constitution to give provinces greater influence in judicial appointments currently controlled by Ottawa.
The premiers want only judges approved by their governments to be appointed.
Sean Fraser, the federal Justice Minister, dismissed the proposal.
Alberta plans to introduce a motion in its legislature to pursue constitutional changes, despite critics who say the move could politicize the judiciary.

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Story summary

Alberta, led by Premier Danielle Smith (Alberta), asks Ottawa to amend the Constitution to give provinces greater influence in judicial appointments currently controlled by Ottawa.
The premiers want only judges approved by their governments to be appointed.
Sean Fraser, the federal Justice Minister, dismissed the proposal.
Alberta plans to introduce a motion in its legislature to pursue constitutional changes, despite critics who say the move could politicize the judiciary.