Trump shooting prompts security questions in Alberta

Donald Trump is back at work two days after being shot at a rally. The violence, however, is still sending chills through the political world.

Calgary’s mayor sidestepped a question Monday, about whether or not she feels safe.

“I can tell you that Calgary’s safety protocols area reviewed on a regular basis and we aim to provide the safest possible environment for anyone who accesses this place,” said Jyoti Gondek, Calgary’s mayor.

After the shooting, Alberta’s premier pointed her finger at the rhetoric of progressives, claiming it’s putting conservatives at risk.

A pair of Calgary political scientists agree — violent language and imagery — is at least as prevalent on the right.

“It just looks like the threats are increasing. It’s sometimes difficult to assess the credibility of those threats. But it’s not just coming against politicians, they’re also threats against journalists and academics,” explained Lori Williams, a political scientist at Mount Royal University.

Williams points out that threats against Alberta politicians are not uncommon — saying Rachel Notley and Jason Kenney faced increases as premier.

“Leadership can really make a difference in terms of moving us in a more positive direction,” said Williams.

It wasn’t that long ago — 2017 — that anyone could pass through the entryway, upstairs, and into Edmonton council chambers unchecked by security. But it’s not that way anymore, today CityNews counted 16 security guards and officers.

A metal detector was added seven years ago.

And a shooting in January prompted the hiring of several more guards and an additional checkpoint.

“It’s sad. But I don’t know how you do it any differently at this point,” said Andrew Knack, Edmonton city councillor.

“I am glad that unlike the legislature or parliament, we are still essentially a public building, even if there’s more security to get in.”

While Councillor Knack wonders if city hall has gone too far, he quickly adds he’s mindful of people who still don’t feel safe.

He doesn’t think the trump shooting will change anything in Edmonton, because enhanced security is already in place.