Executive Summary
Provincial by-elections are special elections that occur between general elections to fill vacancies in the legislative assembly. These vacancies arise due to a variety of reasons; an MLA might resign, pass away, or accept another position that renders them unable to continue serving. By-elections ensure that constituents continue to have representation and that the democratic process is upheld. Traditionally in by-elections, the party in charge receives less support, similar to midterm elections in the United States. Thus, by-elections are usually a good indicator of how well the current government is performing and their favourability with the public.
This by-election spans three Alberta ridings: Edmonton-Strathcona, Edmonton-Ellerslie, and Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills. These ridings represent diverse regions and political landscapes within the province. Edmonton-Strathcona and Edmonton-Ellerslie are urban constituencies located within Alberta’s capital, with histories of strong civic engagement. Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills, by contrast, is a more rural riding, known for its agricultural roots and tight-knit communities.
Unofficial results have safely declared a winner in each riding, despite official results not being verified until Thursday, July 3rd. All three ridings were won by the incumbent party in each, which was the expected outcome. Full details can be viewed on this Elections Alberta webpage.
Edmonton – Strathcona (Previously Held By NDP)
The Edmonton-Strathcona by-election is happening because of the resignation of Rachel Notley. The riding has been a NDP majority for decades and is considered one of the party’s safest seats in the province. Running in this by-election is Naheed Nenshi serving as the relatively-newly appointed party leader of the NDP, who does not currently hold a seat in legislature. This election is important for the NDP as it ensures their party leader a seat in parliament. The primary candidates and unofficial results for this by-election are as follows:
- Naheed Nenshi – NDP – 7952 votes
- Darby-Rae Crouch – UCP – 1314 votes
- Don Slater – Liberal Party – 195 votes
- Ravina Chand – Republican Party of Alberta – 65 votes
Edmonton – Ellerslie (Previously Held By NDP)
The Edmonton-Ellerslie by election is taking place due to Rod Loyola stepping down to run for the federal election. The riding holds some cultural significance as its population is very diverse and composed of many from immigrant backgrounds. This by-election serves as a barometer for how the NDP are doing and could indicate a significant loss of momentum if they do not post a decisive victory. The primary candidates and unofficial results for this by-election are as follows:
- Gurtej Singh – NDP – 4327 votes
- Naresh Bhardwaj – UCP – 3239 votes
- Caroline Currie – Alberta Party – 203 votes
- Fred Munn – Republican Party of Alberta – 291 votes
- Manpreet Tiwana – Liberal Party – 410 votes
Olds – Didsbury – Three Hills (Previously Held By UPC)
The Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills by election is happening because MLA Nathan Cooper resigned as speaker to be appointed as the official senior representative to the United States. This by-election will be the first set of significant election data for how many rural Albertans are supporting the Republican Party of Alberta, a group focused primarily on separation. This election will serve as a barometer of how much Alberta separatist sentiment translates into action at the polls. Given that they received a sizable vote share, there may be broader implications for both the NDP and UCP to consider moving into the next general election. The primary candidates and unofficial results for this by-election are as follows:
- Tara Sawyer – UCP – 9363 votes
- Beverly Toews – NDP – 3061 votes
- Cameron Davies – Alberta Republican Party – 2705 votes
- Bill Tufts – Wild Rose Party – 189 votes
Emmanuel Okusanya, Intern