UCP have 7-point lead over NDP, ‘statistically tied’ in Calgary: poll

The United Conservative Party (UCP) is leading the New Democratic Party (NDP) in the province by seven percentage points, a new poll has found.

With the upcoming election slated for the end of May — which is yet to be confirmed by the UCP — the Angus Reid Institute finds the NDP holds an advantage in the city, but is “statistically tied.”

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has made promises for the City of Calgary, which includes support for a new arena, while NDP leader Rachel Notley is moving her party’s campaign headquarters from Edmonton to Calgary.

According to Angus Reid, Notley has a “positive impression” on Calgarians compared to the premier, with 44 per cent of those polled holding this view over Danielle Smith with 39 per cent.

The poll says the gap is wide between the two parties in other areas of the province when it comes to voting intention and impressions of party leadership.

The NDP holds an advantage over both in Edmonton, while the UCP has the advantage outside the two major cities.

Around 70 per cent of Albertans polled say the current cost of living remains a key issue, but found there are different priorities for each of the voters for the NDP and the UCP.

Those polled who intend to vote NDP are more concerned about health care, education, and the environment than those who would vote for the UCP if an election were held today.

UCP voters polled say they are focused on the economy, energy policy, and government spending.

About half of 18-34-year-olds polled say they would vote for the NDP if an election were held today, compared to the UCP holding 53 per cent to 38 per cent for those aged 35 to 54 and 57 per cent to 37 per cent among those over 54, a lead in those categories.

Elections Canada notes voter turnout in Canadian elections is lower for younger voters.

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Around three in five men approve of Smith, while 34 per cent have favourable views of Notley. Meanwhile, women have a “more positive assessment” of Notley than Smith, with 48 per cent over 36 per cent.

In areas outside of Calgary and Edmonton, 28 per cent of those polled say energy policy is an important issue than those within the major cities, with 21 per cent and 18 per cent respectively.

Calgarians and Edmontonians say poverty and housing affordability are the most important issues.