Alberta recall campaign launched against Premier Danielle Smith

Danielle Smith, the MLA for Brooks-Medicine Hat, is believed to be targeted in a new recall campaign.

Premier Danielle Smith appears to be the latest United Conservative Party (UCP) MLA facing a recall effort.

According to documents sent to CTV News by petition organizers, a recall drive in her Brooks–Medicine Hat riding has been approved by Elections Alberta.

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Elections Alberta has not yet posted the petition publicly, but a letter, also provided by organizers, appears to be from Chief Electoral Officer Gordon McClure.

He states Smith has been served notice of an application and he is “satisfied that the requirements of section 2 (of the Recall Act) have been met” and “the application meets the requirements for approval of a recall petition.”

The Operation Total Recall website, which has been promoting recall campaigns against multiple UCP MLAs, also indicates paperwork for the premier’s riding has been filed.

The materials identify two local organizers, using first names only for safety reasons. They say the effort stems from concerns about Smith’s connection to the community and her use of the notwithstanding clause.

“Smith was placed in this riding through a byelection because there are a lot of voters here who supported her party,” said organizer Heather V. in a statement.

“She has no meaningful connection to the community, and constituents have been struggling to get a hold of her to express their concerns.”

McClure also said in his letter that Smith may submit her own statement setting out why, in her opinion, the recall is “not warranted.”

That statement, if submitted, must not exceed 100 words and should be received by Dec. 9.

CTV News has reached out to the premier’s office for comment.

Recalls not for policy disagreements: UCP

The UCP caucus, in a statement Wednesday, said the recall process should not be used to overturn elections “just because an individual disagrees with government policy.”

“Recalls are meant to address breaches of trust, serious misconduct, or a sustained failure to represent constituents,” it said.

“Our United Conservative caucus remains focused on what we were elected to do, which is standing up for Albertans by growing our economy, lowering taxes, and creating opportunities.”

To trigger a recall vote, the petition will need 12,070 signatures.

If verified, a recall petition against Smith would bring the total to 15 UCP MLAs facing active efforts.

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At the legislature this week, Justice Minister Mickey Amery said recall rules will not be changed this session, despite speculation prompted by the premier’s comments about upcoming election legislation.

“We think it’s being weaponized by special interest groups to try and overthrow a government,” Amery said. “But I can say no changes are coming to the Recall Act at this time.”

The Alberta legislature is expected to adjourn next week.