Danielle Smith, the newly-elected leader of Alberta’s United Conservative Party (UCP), will be sworn in as the province’s premier today.
Why it matters: Smith campaigned for the job on an “Alberta First” slogan and promises to adopt a more antagonistic posture towards the federal government.
- Part of her agenda includes a law to allow the province to refuse to enforce certain federal laws if it decides they interfere with provincial jurisdiction.
- While courts would likely strike down any such law, it would set up a political showdown between Alberta and Ottawa that could lead to unpredictable outcomes.
Smith takes over during a critical time for the province. Alberta has the world’s third-largest crude oil reserves, which have delivered enormous economic benefits—but as renewables become cheaper and the push to decarbonize accelerates, that could become a shakier foundation for growth.
- Outgoing premier Jason Kenney told The Peak the province needs to diversify its economy to succeed in the future: “...the curse [of the energy sector], if you will, is that you can’t rely on it, you need to diversify.”
What’s next: Alberta’s next election is scheduled for the spring of 2023 (though it could come sooner)—Smith will have until then to make her mark on the province before she must face voters.