Front Burner

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith on free speech after Charlie Kirk’s killing, the notwithstanding clause and trans youth laws, and her cautious optimism about the Carney government.

CBC News · Posted: Sep 22, 2025 6:00 AM EDT | Last Updated: 5 hours ago

A close up photo of a woman with brown hair.On Saturday, Premier Smith responded to news of an internal memo from her government which said it plans to implement the notwithstanding clause to three laws that apply to transgender issues. (Jason Franson/The Canadian Press)

Front BurnerDanielle Smith on Carney, Kirk and pipelines

Today, a wide-ranging interview with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.

She talks to host Jayme Poisson about Alberta’s future in light of the Carney government’s push to fast track major projects, arguing that energy development is an issue of national unity for her constituents. 

Smith also responds to the controversy around her potential use of the notwithstanding clause in protecting three laws that affect transgender youth. She also offers her thoughts on Charlie Kirk’s assasination and its aftermath, something that has clearly resonated with Albertans who took part in large vigils in Calgary and Edmonton.

For transcripts of Front Burner, please visit: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/frontburner/transcripts

Subscribe to Front Burner on your favourite podcast app.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Listen on Spotify

Listen on YouTube