UCP minister criticized for allowing controversial U.S. ‘hate preacher' to film in Alberta Legislature

Alberta’s New Democrat Caucus Deputy Leader Rakhi Pancholi accused Children and Family Services Minister Searle Turton of sneaking Sean Feucht, a supposedly controversial Christian-American performer and MAGA supporter, into the Alberta Legislature rotunda to film a social media video.

While inside, Feucht, who earlier in the evening performed a concert on the legislature grounds, sang a Christian song with friends. Around 6,000 people attended the concert outside while a group of LGBTQ activists shouted down the worshipers with a megaphone.

“Turton says no rules were broken but acknowledged that such a tour happening outside of usual business hours isn't approved practice,” wrote the Canadian Press.

Pancholi condemned the move as an inappropriate use of a public space meant for all Albertans, alleging Feucht preaches hate against racialized and sexual minorities.

Pancholi criticized Turton for prioritizing personal interests over public duty, calling the incident a sign of entitlement within the UCP government.

She emphasized that the Legislature belongs to all Albertans, not just the minister’s supporters. Turton has not yet responded to the allegations.

Turton issued a statement acknowledging that while no rules were broken, the tour was not standard procedure. He said, "Although there is no policy preventing an MLA from doing this, I recognize this is not usual procedure. I have been in communication with the Speaker’s Office and understand the appropriate measures to take moving forward."