CTV News: Published April 8, 2023
EDMONTON –
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is offering up a new version of why she engaged in a controversial phone call with a Calgary street pastor in which they discuss his upcoming criminal case related to COVID-19 public health measures.
Smith told her Saturday morning phone-in radio show she took the call from Art Pawlowski because she thought it was going to be in the context of his role as the leader of another political party, the Alberta Independence Party.
Court Painter captured the surprise & disappointment on the Premiers face upon hearing she did not have pardon power like American politicians.
She says when the discussion veered into Pawlowski’s court case, she says she simply reminded him that she had tried to gain amnesty for COVID accused but was told by justice officials the cases must play out independently.
Legal experts say the call was a clear violation of the firewall between politicians and the justice system, noting Smith is heard sharing internal details of Crown case strategy, promising to make inquiries on Pawlowski’s behalf and reporting back to him while also telling him the charges against him were politically motivated.
Court Painter seen with one of the many versions of Premier Smith he has rendered recently.