Calgary MLA announces bid for NDP leadership
Posted Feb 5, 2024 9:14 am.
Last Updated Feb 6, 2024 9:03 am.
A Calgary MLA has launched her bid for leader of Alberta’s New Democratic Party Monday, joining the contest to fill the shoes of Rachel Notley, who has been at the helm for nearly a decade.
Supported by at least seven fellow NDP MLA’s, including Lethbridge-West MLA Shannon Phillips, Calgary-Bhullar-McCall MLA Irfan Sabir, and Calgary-Beddington MLA Amanda Chapman, Kathleen Ganley announced her candidacy for the leader of the Official Opposition.
“I think I have the experience of being in government, of standing with my colleagues,” she said Monday. “I think I’ve been instrumental to our growth here in Calgary and I think I’ve put together an incredible team that has the confidence to lead this province.”
Nearly a month ago, the NDP’s Critic for Energy and Calgary-Mountain View posted a campaign-style video to social media, sparking conversation about her intention to run in the race.
“I know who I am, I know why I’m here and I know that my colleagues stand with me,” she said on Jan. 10. “So, the UCP can call me whatever they want. I won’t be fooled, and neither will Albertans.”
I know who I am. I know why I’m here.
I know what the Alberta NDP stands for and it’s you, the people of this incredible province.#ableg #yyc #yeg pic.twitter.com/JSBJ9GLdhO
— Kathleen Ganley (@KathleenGanley) January 10, 2024
“The UCP will take every effort to define us, they tell us over and over again about our ‘woke agenda,'” Ganley continued. “So allow me to set the record straight — my name is Kathleen Ganley.”
The three-term MLA and former justice minister was the first person to officially launch their bid to become leader of the NDP.
“So, here’s my invitation to you: let’s do this together,” Ganley said. “Bring your ideas, your energy, and your dreams. Let’s talk and share and build a party that reflects us all.
“We do our best work when we work together — that is how we win together in 2027.”
It’s not just Ganley’s name swirling in the rumour mill; former Mayor Naheed Nenshi is supposedly looking at throwing his hat into the ring. MLA’s Sarah Hoffman, David Shepherd, and Rakhi Pancholi have also been suggested as possible contenders.
Monday is the first official day of the leadership race which will wrap up on June 22.
