Calgary MLA Doug Schweitzer won’t be running to replace Jason Kenney, nor will his name stand in Alberta’s next provincial election.
Schweitzer, first elected as the representative for Calgary-Elbow in 2019, posted his intentions to Twitter Monday evening.
There had been ongoing speculation that Schweitzer would put his name forward to replace Premier Jason Kenney. Kenney narrowly survived a leadership vote last week, but then subsequently announced his resignation as leader and premier. Kenney later clarified that he’d stay on until a new leader was chosen.
“Over the past few days, I have been truly honoured and humbled at the support I have received for a potential candidacy to run for the leadership of the United Conservative Party and become Alberta’s next premier,” Schweitzer wrote.
“However, after much consideration, I have made the decision not to run for leader of the UCP or seek re-election as the MLA for Calgary-Elbow.”
Schweitzer did run for the UCP leadership back in 2017. He placed third in that contest.
During his term, Schweitzer served as the Solicitor General and Minister of Justice, and most recently was the Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation.
Schweitzer said after eight years, it was time to spend more time with his family.
To date, only Danielle Smith and Brian Jean have put their names forward to replace Jason Kenney. Other names that have been mentioned include MLAs Travis Toews, Rajan Sawhney, and Jeremy Nixon.
Schweitzer said he intends to stay on to continue Alberta’s Recovery Plan and remain in cabinet until a new leader is elected.
