Danielle Smith is a prominent figure in Alberta politics, known for her conservative views and leadership roles within various political parties. Her career has been marked by both significant achievements and considerable controversy, making her a subject of intense scrutiny and debate within the province and beyond.
Smith first gained widespread recognition as the leader of the Wildrose Party, a right-leaning opposition party in Alberta. She took the helm in 2009 and led the party through a period of significant growth, positioning it as a serious contender to the long-ruling Progressive Conservative Association. Under her leadership, the Wildrose Party advocated for policies centered on fiscal conservatism, limited government intervention, and individual freedoms. The party resonated with many Albertans who felt that the Progressive Conservatives had strayed too far from their conservative roots.
However, Smith’s leadership of the Wildrose Party was not without its challenges. The 2012 provincial election saw the party come close to defeating the Progressive Conservatives, but internal disagreements and controversial statements made by some candidates hampered their chances. Then, in a surprising and controversial move in 2014, Smith led a mass floor-crossing of Wildrose MLAs to the Progressive Conservative party, led by then-Premier Jim Prentice. This decision was met with outrage and accusations of betrayal from many Wildrose supporters, effectively dismantling the Wildrose Party and significantly damaging Smith’s political reputation.
After the floor-crossing, Smith largely retreated from the public eye, working in the media and as a business consultant. However, she remained involved in political discussions and commentary, often expressing her views on Alberta’s economic challenges and the need for a more conservative approach to governance.
In 2022, Smith re-emerged on the political scene, successfully winning the United Conservative Party (UCP) leadership race following the resignation of Jason Kenney. Her victory was attributed in part to her strong base of support among party members who felt that the UCP had not adequately addressed their concerns. As Premier, Smith has focused on issues such as Alberta’s relationship with the federal government, advocating for greater provincial autonomy and pushing back against federal policies perceived as detrimental to the province’s energy sector. She has also prioritized affordability measures and healthcare reform.
Since becoming Premier, Smith’s tenure has been marked by controversy, particularly regarding her past statements on healthcare and her approach to addressing climate change. Her government has faced criticism for its handling of various issues, while also receiving praise from supporters who see her as a strong advocate for Alberta’s interests. Danielle Smith remains a divisive figure, and her leadership continues to shape the political landscape of Alberta.