Two prominent members of Alberta's United Conservative Party cabinet have announced their departures, signalling significant changes within Premier Danielle Smith's government as the province prepares for an election year.
Alberta Finance Minister Nate Horner and Minister of Hospital and Surgical Health Services Matt Jones both confirmed Thursday they will not seek re-election and are stepping down from their cabinet roles. A cabinet shuffle is scheduled to take place later this week, with newly appointed ministers expected to be sworn in.
Horner's Path Forward
Horner, who has served as Alberta's Finance Minister and previously as Agriculture Minister, explained his decision through a social media statement. He indicated that when Premier Smith first offered him the finance role, he had communicated that his second term would likely be his final one in cabinet.
"I remain supportive of our United Conservative Party and Premier Smith. In discussing my plans with the premier, we both felt it was important for the election year budget to be built by a member of cabinet who will be running for re-election," Horner wrote.
Horner will continue representing Drumheller-Stettler as a Member of the Legislative Assembly through the next general election. Before entering politics, he operated a successful cow-calf ranching operation. During his tenure as Finance Minister, Horner delivered three provincial budgets, most recently presenting a budget forecasting a $9.4-billion deficit.
Jones Reflects on Health Care Work
Jones, a former investment banker, expressed pride in his contributions to Alberta's healthcare system and economic development. His cabinet portfolio has included responsibilities for children's services, affordability and utilities, and jobs, economy and trade—in addition to his current health services role.
"Working to improve the healthcare of Albertans and promoting Alberta globally to attract investment and jobs have been the highlights of my career," Jones stated on social media.
Jones will remain as the MLA for Calgary-South East at this time. Hospital and Surgical Health Services represents one of four health-focused ministry positions within Alberta's provincial government structure.
Premier's Praise and Political Questions
Premier Smith acknowledged both departing ministers' contributions, crediting Horner with strengthening Alberta's fiscal position and Jones with building a healthcare system better equipped to serve the province's growing population.
Both ministers were first elected in 2019 and served through two distinct eras of UCP governance, including the administrations of both Jason Kenney and Danielle Smith.
Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi suggested on social media that the departures may be connected to broader political tensions within the government, though representatives for both ministers declined to elaborate beyond their official statements.
Lisa Young, a political science professor at the University of Calgary, noted that while the resignations carry certain implications, they are not entirely surprising given the timing and political landscape.
This article is based on reporting from CBC Calgary. For the full story and latest updates, visit CBC News.