UCP May Repeal Recall Laws as MLA Risks Increase in Alberta

The government of Alberta is considering the repeal of its recall laws, according to statements made by Utilities Minister Nathan Neudorf. This potential move by the United Conservative Party (UCP) follows the emergence of recall campaigns targeting its members, particularly in urban districts where public sentiment is increasingly critical of their governance.

During a meeting on October 31, 2023, Lethbridge resident Daniela Andrea Kutney reported that Neudorf indicated the UCP is likely to work on repealing the recall legislation, which he described as having been “abused.” He suggested that any repeal would not occur until the spring of 2024. Notably, Neudorf expressed concern that if a recall campaign were to be initiated in his constituency, it could succeed, potentially leading to a shift in representation from UCP to the New Democratic Party (NDP).

The recall system was introduced under former Premier Jason Kenney in 2020 and was updated earlier this year under Danielle Smith. Some argue that the legislation was intended to provide a mechanism for voters to hold their representatives accountable, but it now appears to be backfiring on the UCP.

Many of the UCP MLAs, particularly those from urban areas, are facing serious risks of being targeted by recall campaigns. This follows the UCP’s contentious decision to use the Charter of Rights and Freedoms’ notwithstanding clause to impose a contract on striking teachers, which many viewed as an infringement on their rights. This action has sparked considerable public outrage and increased the likelihood of recall efforts.

Neudorf’s comments reflect the growing anxiety within the UCP caucus. Without a viable solution, Premier Smith may find herself at odds with her own party members. If the UCP does not address the potential for losing its seven-seat majority through recall votes, it may expedite the process of repealing the recall legislation.

Historically, Alberta has not had recall legislation since the Great Depression, when it was introduced by the Social Credit government led by William Aberhart. The original law allowed constituents to remove their MLAs if a petition gathered 66.6 percent of a riding’s voters’ support. This law was short-lived; it was repealed in 1937 after Aberhart faced a recall campaign himself.

As of this week, in a move that some interpret as a tactic to undermine recall initiatives, the UCP has effectively limited Elections Alberta‘s funding. They denied a request for an additional $13.5 million to manage the costs associated with processing recall and citizen initiative petitions, instead allocating only around $1 million.

Thomas Lukaszuk, a former MLA and advocate for citizen initiatives, criticized this decision, stating, “Unless the Chief Electoral Officer is able to do his job — to approve requests for petitions or recalls and certify the results — the legislation is meaningless.” This statement underscores the UCP’s apparent retreat from its commitment to enhance democratic processes.

As the situation develops, it remains uncertain how the UCP will navigate the growing pressure from constituents and the potential for significant electoral consequences. The political landscape in Alberta may see significant shifts if these recall campaigns gain traction, particularly in light of rising public dissatisfaction with the current government’s actions.