'Bite me': Alberta baker challenges premier's office over boycott tied to recall
A bakery owner in Medicine Hat has become the centre of a political storm after backing a recall campaign against Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. Brendan Hillson, who runs McBride’s bakery, offered his shop as a meeting space for canvassers gathering signatures to oust the premier. The move has sparked online backlash, including calls for a boycott of his business—even drawing attention from a government official.
Hillson’s support for the recall effort follows a pattern of political activism. In the past, he delivered rainbow doughnuts to his local MLA’s office and handed out 'Not Danielle' buttons during Smith’s 2023 election campaign. Despite the online criticism, he remains undeterred, arguing that face-to-face conversations in his community are far more respectful than social media attacks.
The recall campaign itself is historic. Led by petitioner Heather VanSnick, it marks the first attempt to remove a sitting premier in Alberta in 90 years. VanSnick needs to collect just over 12,000 verified signatures by March 10, 2026, to force a constituency-wide vote. Elections Alberta approved her petition in early December 2025, setting the process in motion. Smith, who represents the neighbouring Brooks–Medicine Hat riding, has responded by stating she is proud to serve the area. She points to regular town halls as proof of her engagement with residents. Meanwhile, McBride’s bakery sits in Cypress–Medicine Hat, outside her direct constituency. The controversy widened when Bruce McAllister, executive director of the premier’s southern office, retweeted a post urging a boycott of Hillson’s business. This escalation highlights the growing tension around Smith’s leadership, as she is one of 23 Alberta legislators currently facing recall campaigns from dissatisfied voters.
The recall petition against Smith now hinges on gathering enough signatures before the 2026 deadline. Hillson’s bakery continues to serve as a hub for organisers, despite the backlash. If successful, the campaign would trigger a vote that could remove Smith from office—an unprecedented event in modern Alberta politics.
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