Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has officially triggered a by-election in Calgary-Shaw for September 14, setting the stage for a three-way political battle in one of the province's most closely watched ridings.
The seat has sat empty since May, when former United Conservative Party cabinet minister Rebecca Schulz stepped down to take an executive role with Whitecap Resources, a major Alberta oil and gas company. Schulz had served as Smith's environment minister through 2024 and into early 2025.
The Main Contenders
Smith's UCP is banking on Mike Derry, a community-focused candidate the premier says understands the pressures facing Calgary families and business owners. In a statement Monday, Smith emphasized Derry's vision for lower taxes, public safety, and robust job creation.
The Opposition NDP countered with Kyle Campbell as their candidate, with Leader Naheed Nenshi urging Calgarians to send Smith's government a message about cost of living, healthcare, and education. Nenshi's camp has also criticized the UCP's relationship with separatist movements, a recurring theme in provincial debate.
Adding a wrinkle to the race is the newly minted Progressive Tory Party, led by former UCP cabinet minister Peter Guthrie, which is expected to field a candidate in the riding.
Historical Context
Calgary-Shaw, created in 1986, has long been a conservative stronghold—with one notable exception. The riding flipped NDP in 2015 during the "orange wave" that swept Rachel Notley's government into power. Since then, it has reverted to UCP control.
Smith's decision to call the by-election in mid-September follows her stated preference to hold off until after summer, when Albertans are traditionally less focused on politics. The move gives candidates roughly six weeks to campaign.
Elections Alberta will release unofficial results the evening of September 14 once polls close.
This article is based on reporting by David Chen of The Globe and Mail.