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Danielle Smith posts photo with, from left to right, Jordan Peterson, Tucker Carlson and Conrade Black. (X/Danielle Smith)

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith blasted for Tucker Carlson interview

Jan 25, 2024 | 3:30 PM

Alberta New Democrats blasted Premier Danielle Smith on Thursday for spending time with former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson.

Smith spent time with Carlson, author Jordan Peterson and newspaper figure Conrad Black on Wednesday.

“Free speech means you don’t just have to talk to the mainstream media,” she wrote in a post to X, posing for a photo with Carlson, Wilson and Peterson.

Carlson interviewed Smith live in Calgary for a short 16 minutes in front of a friendly crowd that gave several standing ovations, according to media reports.

Smith made sure to point out she does not agree with the opinion of every media outlet she speaks with.

Carlson thanked Smith for a dinner they had together the night before.

NDP leader Rachel Notley denounced Smith for giving Tucker a platform in Canada.

“The premiers’ actions unfortunately, have sent a disheartening message about our province to the rest of the world,” Notley said.

“At a time when many people – including investors, job creators, and many professionals so desperately needed in our workforce – are considering Alberta as their new home, Danielle Smith sat across from a man moments after he promoted white supremacy and disparaged immigrants.”

“I call on Danielle Smith to reflect deeply on her choice to use the Office of the Premier to elevate someone like Tucker Carlson, and I urge her to specifically disavow his harmful and dangerous views.

“Most importantly, she must apologize to the Albertans who feel less secure and less welcome today because of her actions.

The Smith interview was announced last year.