Premier Danielle Smith strongly criticized Take Back Alberta Leader David Parker on Tuesday, urging him to seek help and condemning his "bullying" comments directed at Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and his wife Anaida.
During a news conference, Smith expressed her disapproval of Parker's behavior, stating, "I just don’t want to be associated with that kind of commentary and I don’t want to be associated with that kind of personal attack and bullying."
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She went on to reveal that she had advised Parker to delete his social media account and seek assistance. Smith emphasized her stance against personal attacks and bullying in the public sphere.
This marks the first instance of Smith publicly criticizing Parker, despite their previous acquaintance, including her attendance at his wedding. However, Smith and her team have long been concerned about Parker's political actions, and his recent conduct has crossed a line for the libertarian premier.
Responding to suggestions that Parker influences her decisions, Smith asserted her independence, stating, "I have to be absolutely clear that nobody tells me what to do as premier. The people I take my marching orders from are Albertans."
Parker revealed that Smith had advised him against appearing on a podcast hosted by Dean Blundell's YouTube channel on Monday. Despite receiving similar advice from others, Parker proceeded with the appearance and intensified his earlier criticisms.
In addition to insulting Conservative consultant Jenni Byrne, Parker made disparaging remarks about her competence. His initial tweet, alleging a past relationship between Poilievre and Byrne, sparked the controversy.
Expressing sympathy for Anaida, Parker suggested that Poilievre should not be working with someone he had a romantic history with.