Over multiple episodes, Pike alleged MHCare was awarded two controversial contracts from the province he believes were sole-sourced, and that Mraiche later invited multiple politicians into a free VIP box for Edmonton Oilers playoff hockey games.

In an affidavit, Mriache claims, “The consequent hate that I am receiving from (The Breakdown’s) readers, listeners, and/or followers, as well as the threats made as against myself and MHCare, have caused me to be extremely fearful for my safety, my family’s safety, and safety of the employees and agents of MHCare and their families.”

SLAPP suit?

Political experts question why Pike is being targeted.

“I’m a bit puzzled as to what the focus is here, (and) why is it that this particular reporting is being singled out?” Mount Royal University political scientist Lori Williams said.

“A number of different reporters have come forward and are essentially making the same claims.”

Some have speculated the original filing was a SLAPP (strategic lawsuit against public participation) suit: a way to keep critics quiet.

“This happens when a well-funded individual, or a company using their large financial resources, go after someone who is saying things they want to silence,” Williams told CTV News.