Nenshi Easily Wins NDP Leadership Vote

In a significant political development this past week, the New Democratic Party (NDP) in Alberta concluded its leadership vote, resulting in Naheed Nenshi emerging as the new leader. The vote marks a pivotal moment for the party as it seeks to steer Alberta in a more progressive direction.

NDP Leadership Vote Results

The leadership race was competitive, with three prominent sitting MLA candidates vying for the top position. Nenshi, the former mayor of Calgary, won a decisive victory, securing 86% of the votes from party members. His campaign focused on revitalizing the NDP’s image, emphasizing inclusivity, economic diversification, and robust environmental policies. The results reflect a strong desire among party members for a charismatic and experienced leader who can address the challenges facing Alberta.

Implications of Nenshi’s Victory

There are a series of implications of Nenshi’s election as NDP leader in Alberta:

1. Renewed Focus on Urban Issues:
   Nenshi’s previous tenure as Calgary’s mayor showcased his commitment to urban development and addressing the unique needs of cities. As NDP leader, he is expected to bring a renewed focus on urban issues, advocating for policies that support infrastructure development, affordable housing, and public transit improvements. Bill 20 introduced by the government in the spring sitting has resulted in significant backlash and will be a primary focus for Nenshi. The bill gives the government unprecedented power to remove sitting councillors and to quash municipal bylaws. Nenshi has framed the bill as the government denying the democratic rights of citizens to elect councils that reflect their beliefs.
2. Economic Diversification and Innovation:
   Nenshi’s leadership is likely to prioritize economic diversification, moving Alberta away from its heavy reliance on the oil and gas sector while still maintaining Alberta’s position as an energy superpower. He has consistently supported fostering innovation, investing in
   technology, and promoting renewable energy sources, aligning with the NDP’s broader goals of a sustainable and resilient economy. Nenshi has also talked about the need to provide significant support to small business, the largest employer in the Province.

3. Affordability for Albertans: A suite of economic policies focused on “making life easier for everyone” includes a focus on utility rates, affordable housing, and fully implementing $10/day daycare. Nenshi is likely to pick up strategies similar to those implemented in B.C. where affordable housing initiatives include the investment of $1.8 billion over the next ten years.
4. Strengthening Social Policies:
   Known for his progressive stance on social issues, Nenshi’s victory could lead to stronger advocacy for healthcare, education, and social services. His inclusive approach aims to ensure that marginalized communities receive adequate support and representation. A focus on repairing the relationship with health care workers is a priority, as is the creation of a strong mental-health and addictions environment based on the best scientific evidence.
5. Environmental Leadership:
   With a background in supporting green initiatives, Nenshi is poised to enhance the NDP’s environmental policies. This includes advancing renewable energy projects, implementing stricter environmental regulations, and addressing climate change more aggressively. There is likely to be an increased focus on water security and planning for extreme weather conditions of drought and flooding. Nenshi is well known as the effective leader that helped Calgary survive the disastrous
   flood of 2013.

We’re Here to Help

For more information and insights about what these developments mean for Alberta’s political landscape, please contact:

Richard Feehan – Senior Strategy Advisor
feehan@prairieskystrategy.ca
780.940.8956

Rick Fraser – Senior Strategy Advisor
rick@prairieskystrategy.ca
403.701.7584

Whitney Issik – Senior Strategy Advisor
whitney@prairieskystrategy.ca
403.815.2582

Colleen Potter – Senior Strategy Advisor
colleen@prairieskystrategy.ca
587.500.2336

Mat Steppan – Senior Strategy Advisor
mat@prairieskystrategy.ca
780.236.1543

Jeff Sterzuk – President
jeff@prairieskystrategy.ca
403.612.1724

Ben Thibault – Senior Strategy Advisor
ben@prairieskystrategy.ca
587.897.6261

Richard Truscott – Vice-President
richard@prairieskystrategy.ca
403.998.0494

To learn more about Prairie Sky Strategy, please visit our website.