Alberta's government is working on new legislation aimed at safeguarding the electoral system from disruptions caused by the Longest Ballot Committee (LBC). This protest group has been known for submitting numerous frivolous candidates in federal elections, most recently in the Battle River-Crowfoot riding. In response to the LBC's actions, Elections Canada had to create a new write-in system after over 200 individuals were persuaded to run in an August by-election.

Joseph Schow, the Conservative House Leader in Alberta, discussed the government's plans with reporters on Monday. He emphasized the need for candidates who are genuinely committed to representing their communities. This statement has drawn criticism, with some suggesting it reflects an undemocratic approach to candidate selection.

The LBC gained notoriety in 2017 when Kieran Szuchewycz, a member of the group, successfully argued in court that the requirement for election deposits was unconstitutional. Justice Avril Inglis ruled that while the purpose of these deposits was to deter frivolous candidates, the requirement itself was ineffective. She noted that the deposits had become unconditionally refundable, which undermined their intended purpose.

Following this ruling, the LBC exploited the absence of deposit requirements, leading to a surge in frivolous candidacies. The group has managed to circumvent existing regulations by recruiting nominators willing to endorse multiple candidates and by providing the same official agent for various candidates, often Szuchewycz himself.

Tomas Szuchewycz, Kieran's brother, has become the public face of the LBC. He recently appeared before a House of Commons committee discussing the group's activities. During the session, he engaged in a heated exchange with Conservative MP Michael Cooper regarding the legality of the LBC's signature-gathering methods.

The LBC advocates for significant changes to the electoral process, pushing for the establishment of an independent, non-partisan body to oversee elections. However, election reform efforts have historically struggled to gain traction when subjected to direct public votes. Critics argue that the LBC's approach may undermine democratic principles, as it seeks to bypass traditional legislative processes.

In light of these developments, Alberta's government is exploring ways to strengthen the electoral system against the tactics employed by the LBC. However, specific details about the proposed legislation have not yet been disclosed. Schow's comments about the need for serious candidates have sparked debate about the implications for democratic participation in Alberta's elections.

Potential solutions to the challenges posed by the LBC could include requiring nominators to support only one candidate or mandating separate election agents for each candidate. However, implementing such measures may present logistical challenges. Some observers suggest that reinstating election deposits, possibly with a forfeiture clause for candidates who fail to meet a minimum vote threshold, could deter frivolous candidacies. This approach would likely face legal scrutiny, especially given the previous court ruling that deemed such deposits unconstitutional.

As Alberta navigates these complex issues, the balance between ensuring a fair electoral process and maintaining democratic principles remains a critical concern for lawmakers and citizens alike.