Online Harassment and Smear Campaign Targets Investigative Globe Journalist

Carrie Tait, a Calgary-based journalist for The Globe and Mail, has become the target of a disturbing online harassment campaign linked to her reporting on political interference in Alberta’s healthcare system. The anonymous X (formerly Twitter) account “The Brokedown” posted covert photographs of Tait as she met with two former staffers of Premier Danielle Smith. The images were reportedly shared in advance with a political podcaster, suggesting a coordinated attempt to intimidate or discredit her.

The harassment escalated beyond online attacks. Someone allegedly spoofed Tait’s phone number to contact her sources and possibly accessed her private medical records through a pharmacy. The identity of the person or group behind the campaign remains unknown. Still, the timing closely followed a major lawsuit filed by former Alberta Health Services CEO Athana Mentzelopoulos, who accused Smith’s former chief of staff, Marshall Smith, of political interference in procurement contracts. Tait had been reporting on this case.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith condemned the harassment and denied any involvement from her or her office. She called the campaign unacceptable and encouraged Tait to pursue legal recourse, including involving the RCMP. Smith said she did not know who was behind the account and emphasised that no one should be harassed for doing their job.

Journalists and press freedom advocates across Canada have expressed alarm over the incident. Political blogger David Climenhaga described the campaign as part of a broader trend of hostility toward the press, warning that it could undermine public trust and political discourse. The anonymous account has since been suspended.

The incident has triggered broader concerns about surveillance and harassment tactics being used against reporters investigating political power. While no legal action has yet been taken over the harassment, the lawsuits related to Tait’s reporting are ongoing. Marshall Smith has filed a defamation suit against both Tait and The Globe and Mail in response to the coverage.

This case highlights the growing risks faced by journalists exposing power, and reinforces the urgent need for stronger protections against intimidation and surveillance.

References –

https://www.ctvnews.ca/edmonton/alberta-legislature/article/alberta-premier-condemns-anonymous-social-media-account-reportedly-targeting-globe-reporter/

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-globe-and-mail-reporter-targeted-by-online-campaign-photographed/