Episode 8.02 - The Recall That Wasn't with Journalist Alexandra Noad!

·1 hr 3 min·5 clips

A recall effort in Lethbridge East appears designed to fail, protecting an MLA from a real challenge.

The episode begins with host Nate Pike introducing the topic of recalls in Alberta, specifically focusing on a questionable effort in Lethbridge East against MLA Nathan Neudorf. He welcomes guest Alex Noad, a reporter for the Lethbridge Herald, who has been investigating the story. Noad shares her background, explaining she is a new journalist and this is her first investigative piece. She describes how the recall started with applicant Ryan Tanner, who was unresponsive to media and volunteers. Noad recounts how a separate group had everything set up for a recall but was told someone else had already applied. She details a meeting where a volunteer named 'Mike' distributed forms but seemed unaware of the recall's details and came from outside the constituency, violating rules. The host and Noad discuss the vague wording on the recall petition. Noad explains her attempts to contact Tanner, including a phone call where someone identified as Tanner then immediately recanted, with a woman's voice heard in the background. The conversation shifts to the recall legislation, noting that the UCP's law has no requirements for good faith or minimum signatures, allowing bad-faith applications. Noad mentions a Substack article linking the recall email to former school board trustee Ginny Steed, but Steed did not respond to requests for comment. She also discusses trying to contact 'Mike,' who hung up on her. The host and Noad explore the social connections in Lethbridge and the frustration of sources refusing to engage. They note that Neudorf has denied involvement, and Elections Alberta says its hands are tied by the legislation. Noad plans to continue following the story, including speaking with other MLAs and possibly the premier's office. The episode concludes with Noad sharing her Twitter handle and a personal anecdote about her grandfather.

As heard by us

A southern Alberta recall story turns on strange phone calls, account details, handwriting, and still-unresolved political questions.

This single-episode review follows a southern Alberta recall effort through the rules, doubts, and odd details that make the story feel less straightforward than a failed petition.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Press play when a southern Alberta recall story starts sounding like a paperwork mystery with one very awkward phone call.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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