Ellen Perdue-Tieman versus UCP Town Hall Cops

Tensions were already high before the town hall even began.

I interviewed Ellen Perdue-Tieman outside the event as she called on supporters to confront Justin Wright, the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cypress-Medicine Hat, and Danielle Smith, the Premier of Alberta, over healthcare, education, and government accountability. The plan was to enter as individuals, without picket signs, then make their message heard.

Medicine Hat police were present and attempted to persuade protesters to remain outside. Some went in anyway. Shortly after, Ellen was removed from the venue before the town hall officially started.

This footage captures the moments leading up to the event. Raw, unfiltered, and very much a snapshot of Alberta’s political landscape right now.

Whatever side you’re on, this is what civic tension looks like in real time.

*Correction: A previous version of this article referred to “MLA Justin Wright” and “MLA Danielle Smith.” That styling was incorrect. On first reference, elected officials should be identified by their full name and their office (if that’s even necessary). In this case, they should have been described as Justin Wright, the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cypress-Medicine Hat, and Danielle Smith, the Premier of Alberta.

We regret the error.