File photo of Doug Schweitzer. (Government of Alberta)

By Justin Goulet/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Eight Years Served

Schweitzer not running for UCP leadership, or re-election as Calgary-Elbow MLA

May 24, 2022 | 12:16 PM

Doug Schweitzer will not be running to be the next leader of the United Conservative Party (UCP) in Alberta.

Last week, Jason Kenney announced his resignation as the party’s leader, meaning a new leadership race is on. Former Wildrose Party leaders Brian Jean and Danielle Smith have signalled their intent to run for the party leadership.

READ MORE: Alberta Premier Jason Kenney says he won’t run in upcoming party leadership race

Schweitzer is currently Alberta’s Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation and serves as the MLA for the riding of Calgary-Elbow. In the 2019 general election, Schweitzer was named the province’s Minister of Justice and Solicitor General but was moved to his current portfolio two years ago.

In a statement on social media, he said as Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation, “I was afforded the opportunity to lead Alberta’s Economy Recovery Plan.”

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“We coordinated industry strategies across Government and directly developed provincial strategies for: technology and innovation, aerospace and logistics, manufacturing, film and television, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, and tourism.”

He noted that “Alberta’s economy is rapidly diversifying while also being projected to lead Canada in GDP growth.”

Schweitzer said over the past few days, he has received plenty of support for a potential candidacy to run for the leadership of the UCP. However, he is decided to not run for the party leadership or seek re-election as the MLA for Calgary-Elbow.

“After eight years, I am looking forward to spending more time with my family,” Schweitzer stated.

“I could not have served our province so diligently without their immense sacrifice and support.”

Schweitzer added that “to help ensure the continuity and stability of our Government,” his intention is to continue his work on the province’s Economic Recovery Plan and stay in Cabinet until a new UCP leader is chosen.

He concluded, “to my supporters and team members, thank you.”

“I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together over these many years. In the years and decades to come, I will continue to meaningfully contribute to public life.”

Meanwhile, Jason Kenney has announced that he will also not be running in the race to pick a new leader of the UCP. He will stay on as leader of the party until a new head is selected.

NDP Candidate for Calgary-Elbow Samir Kayande released the following statement in repsonse to Schweitzer’s announcement:

“I would like to send my appreciation to MLA Doug Schweitzer for the work he has done as the MLA for Calgary-Elbow over the years, as he has announced he will not be seeking re-election in 2023. As a member of the Calgary-Elbow community, I understand the enormous task of representing this area and truly serving its constituents.

“My campaign continues on, with a focus on the people of Calgary-Elbow. I want to ensure public healthcare is there for them when and where they need it, that we are truly helping them with the cost-of-living crisis and that we’re focused relentlessly on creating good-paying jobs and diversifying our economy.

“I look forward to the opportunity to carry Rachel Notley’s vision into this area, and ensure that all in this area have access to reliable public healthcare, continued job growth, and a government they can trust once again.”

(With files from rdnewsNOW)