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Alberta Official Defends $3,000 Business-Class Flight on Medical Grounds

Premier Danielle Smith’s chief of staff cites a life-threatening blood disorder to justify taxpayer-funded travel expenses, dismissing criticism as politically motivated.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, right, speaks to reporters, as chief of staff Rob Anderson looks on in this file photo in Calgary, Alta., Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011. Anderson is defending a business class flight he charged to taxpayers, citing a health condition that increases his risk of blood clots. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith makes an announcement in Edmonton, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Her chief of staff is defending a business class flight he charged to taxpayers, citing a health condition that increases his risk of blood clots. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

Overview

  • The $3,000 business-class flight was part of a $10,000 taxpayer-funded trip to Florida for a meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this year.
  • Chief of Staff Marshall Anderson claims his blood disorder, Factor V Leiden, necessitates business-class seating to prevent fatal blood clots on flights over three hours.
  • Anderson publicly defended the expense on May 6, calling the CBC’s reporting on the matter a smear campaign and sharing details of his medical condition to counter criticism.
  • Premier Danielle Smith previously defended the travel expense when questioned by the Opposition NDP in March, emphasizing Anderson’s health needs.
  • The controversy has reignited debates over government accountability and the use of public funds for official travel in Alberta politics.