Western Standard News Update | 12 Jan 2026

In this Western Standard News Update, Chief Editor Dave Naylor highlights key stories shaping Canada — from Alberta politics and federal spending to pandemic policy and consumer trends.Alberta Ministers Todd Loewen and Demetrios Nicolaides are climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for domestic abuse victims, a B.C. court upholds workplace vaccine mandates, and the Royal Canadian Air Force seeks a private secretary consultant despite spending-cut pledges in Ottawa.Plus, a new Canadian Taxpayers Federation report reveals an 80% surge in federal civil service staffing, and protein coffee trends spark conversation about food affordability.Watch the full update and stay informed on Western Standard’s independent coverage.Follow us on Spotify, YouTube Music, and Apple Podcasts — and visit WesternStandard.News for more.