Premiers Demand Provincial Role in Judicial Appointments | Canada News
Four provincial premiers have jointly called on Prime Minister Mark Carney to fundamentally alter the process for appointing judges, requesting a direct role for provincial governments in selecting judicial candidates within their jurisdictions.
The request, formalized in a letter signed by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Quebec Premier François Legault and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, seeks a “new, collaborative approach” to judicial appointments, according to a post on Premier Scott Moe’s Facebook page. The premiers argue that provincial input is essential to ensure the selection of judges who understand and reflect the legal needs of their respective regions.
Justice Minister Sean Fraser, however, has indicated the federal government has no intention of changing the existing judicial appointments process. “We haven’t changed our point of view that we believe that the judicial appointments process is functioning,” Fraser stated Tuesday, as reported by CBC News. He further noted that a consultation mechanism already exists, allowing provinces to provide input when the federal government initiates the appointment process.
The premiers’ move comes after a period of increasing tension between provincial governments and the federal administration, particularly regarding economic policy and jurisdictional authority. In July 2025, Premiers Ford and Smith signed memorandums of understanding focused on securing federal approval for infrastructure projects and reducing regulations affecting energy development, signaling a coordinated effort to leverage the federal government, according to Policy Magazine. This collaboration followed a period where Ford had adopted a more aggressive stance towards federal tariffs, while Smith pursued a conciliatory approach.
The demand for greater provincial involvement in judicial appointments is not an isolated incident. The premiers’ letter follows a pattern of seeking increased autonomy from the federal government, particularly in areas impacting provincial economies and legal systems. The One Canadian Economy Act, implemented by Prime Minister Carney, has prompted ongoing negotiations and disagreements with provincial leaders regarding the balance of power and economic control.
As of Wednesday, March 25, 2026, the Prime Minister’s office has not issued a response to the premiers’ letter, and Justice Minister Fraser has maintained the federal government’s position on the existing judicial appointments process. The premiers have not publicly outlined any specific next steps should their request be denied.