Danielle Smith Elected UCP Leader and Premier-Designate

Last night, United Conservative Party members elected Danielle Smith as their leader on the sixth round of preferential balloting. She secured the support of 53.77 percent of party voters, and will formally assume the Premiership in the coming days.

Smith’s victory, while impressive, was not entirely decisive. She must now preside over a fractious caucus, and a government with little time to pivot towards the 2023 general election. Moderate party members and United Conservative MLAs are likely to remain skeptical of her promises and priorities, while others are beginning to coalesce around her increasingly autonomous vision for Alberta. Expect to see a stronger rural presence in the selection of Cabinet ministers, as well as notable promotions for Smith allies and other leadership contenders.

It is now clear that Smith intends to trigger a by-election as soon as possible, and enter into the Legislative Assembly by the end of November. Cabinet decisions are expected during the week of October 17th, in advance of the UCP Special General Meeting on October 21st-23rd. Once the legislative session resumes, a Throne Speech, the tabling of the Alberta Sovereignty Act and reforms to Alberta Health Services are to be the first orders of business for the new government.

Finally, it is worth highlighting that changes to political staff, the upper echelons of the civil service and other government agencies will be significant. Understanding the motivations, priorities, and management style of these personalities will be a key element of successful advocacy in the short period leading up the 2023 general election.

For assistance navigating the changes and constructing a strong government relations plan, feel free to contact one of our consultants today.