Smith unofficially kicks off election campaign with address to Albertans: political scientist
Posted November 23, 2022 9:12 am.
Last Updated November 23, 2022 9:14 am.
With Premier Danielle Smith announcing a batch of inflation-fighting relief aid for Albertans, a political scientist says it’s a clear sign Smith’s election campaign is kicking off.
“We are clearly in full-tilt election mode,” said Lori Williams, and associate professor of policy studies at Mount Royal University.
And while the premier’s payout is expected to land positively with families, some say her stance against Ottawa may not carry as much weight.
“I don’t think it’s something that’s going to be important enough to most Albertans to win or lose the next election,” said Williams. “I think those other issues are going to be the priorities.”
Some Albertans took to Twitter immediately following the address.
Great address to Albertans.
I stand behind @ABDanielleSmith 100%. She’s tough,caring, has good old common sense, and seems both calm yet convicted to help Albertans. There is lots of work to be done but I’m ready to battle along side her. #ablg #yeg— Ernest (@RubiColin22) November 23, 2022
@ABDanielleSmith this is not a plan. This is 15 seconds of typing that outline problems that Albertans are currently pissed at the UCP for. Problems created by the UCP. If this is the best you can come up with just call the election now. https://t.co/8eRlZsrRY6
— Ben Goliath (@BA_Goliath) November 23, 2022
The election is expected to happen in May. But Williams says a delay in the democratic process could also be in store.
“Constitutionally, the time limit is five years, not four,” said the political scientist. “And so it is certainly a possibility that government and Danielle Smith leading that government will try to vote for new legislation or extend that mandate a bit longer to give them a better chance in the next election.”
Williams adds if the election is indeed pushed back, that decision could come with consequences that could cost the party and the premier support when the time to vote arrives.
WATCH: Danielle Smith’s full address to Albertans on Nov. 22, 2022
