Alberta forecasts $2.4B surplus in election year budget

Alberta has tabled a big spending budget, and it’s good timing for Premier Danielle Smith, who faces an election in May. Heather Yourex-West explains what’s bulked up the province’s piggy bank, its historic turnaround compared to 2022, where spending is being pledged, and how the opposition says this is a ploy to win votes.

• Calgary Stampede tarp auction ‘a reflection’ of Alberta’s booming economy
• ‘Definitely an election budget’: Critics call out 2023 Alberta budget