Rachel Notley has announced that she will be stepping down as the leader of Alberta’s NDP, which will initiate a leadership race for the party. Notley confirmed this during a news conference on January 16, stating that she believes it’s in the party and caucus’ best interest that she not lead them into the next election. Although she doesn’t plan to resign as an MLA, she will step down as soon as the leadership transition is complete. Notley also expressed a commitment to leading the caucus through the next session of the legislature and providing support to the new leader once chosen.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith thanked Notley for her service, acknowledging the significance and dedication she brought to the role, noting that Notley’s late father, Grant Notley, was also an honorable public servant. Notley, who served as Premier from 2015 to 2019, reflected on her time in office, including significant accomplishments such as getting approval for the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, reducing child poverty, investing in schools and hospitals, and phasing out coal-fired electricity.
Following the 2023 election loss, Notley began to question her future in the party. She reflected on how she was raised to believe in a life of public service by her parents, acknowledging that serving the province has been the honor of her life. Her father, Grant Notley, was also a part of the provincial NDP party and was elected leader in 1968 until his untimely death in an airplane crash.
Ms. Notley’s leadership role has come to an end after she served one term as premier, resulting in a win for the United Conservative Party (UCP) in 2019 and 2023. Despite this, she emphasized that the opportunity to serve the province in this role has been incredibly rewarding and that Albertans have taught her many things along the way.