Lethbridge-West MLA Shannon Phillips (pictured immediately to the left of Kathleen Ganley) will serve as co-chair in Ganley's Alberta NDP leadership campaign, February 5, 2024. (Photo: Kathleen Ganley)

By David Opinko

Shannon Phillips to co-chair Kathleen Ganley’s NDP leadership campaign

Feb 6, 2024 | 10:33 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The MLA for Lethbridge-West is not seeking to become the new leader of the Alberta NDP, but will play a role in the leadership race.

The assistant for Shannon Phillips confirmed to LNN that Phillips, along with Calgary-Bhullar-McCall MLA Irfan Sabir, will serve as a co-chair in Kathleen Ganley’s bid to lead the party.

In her official endorsement, Philips said she has had the pleasure of working alongside Ganley for years.

“She is incredibly intelligent, kind and views the world through the lens of what would be best for her own kid, my kids and a bright future for all Albertans. She is an experienced leader and has become a confidant and a close friend of mine over our time in Government and Opposition,” said Phillips.

Phillips added that Ganley understands that everyone is at their best when they work together to tackle major challenges, and that she is willing to entertain those who have opinions that are different from hers.

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“The Alberta NDP’s best days are ahead and I believe that Kathleen Ganley is the bets leader to take us to government in 2027,” said Phillips. “The people of Lethbridge, the people of Alberta should get behind this incredible woman. I am so proud to be on Team Ganley.”

Phillips and Ganley were both elected to the Alberta legislature in 2015 and are currently in their third terms as part of the Alberta NDP.

Ganley, the MLA for Calgary-Mountain View, was the first candidate to officially be declared for the party’s 2024 leadership race.

Following the announcement last month that Rachel Notley would be stepping down as NDP leader, the party looks to choose a new leader on June 22, 2024.

READ MORE: Kathleen Ganley announces NDP leadership campaign

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