Premier Jason Kenney speaking at the Lethbridge Airport on May 11, 2022. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By Canadian Press

‘A fine leader’: Reaction to Jason Kenney resigning after UCP review

May 19, 2022 | 11:50 AM

CALGARY, AB – Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said Wednesday he is stepping down as leader of the United Conservative Party (UCP) after the party announced he had won a leadership review with just 51.4 per cent of votes.

While Kenney said he had enough support to pass the constitutional requirements to stay on as leader, he believes it was not a clear mandate and that Albertans deserve a leader who can unite the province.

Here is some of the political reaction:

Janis Nett, secretary of the United Conservative Party: “He was a fine leader. He worked so hard for this province, uniting us Conservatives together back in 2016 and his heart was in this province. And now he’s gone. He’s going to do wonderful things with his life and his career, but it’s a loss to our party.”

Alberta Opposition NDP Leader Rachel Notley: “There are obviously many things about which we don’t agree, but that doesn’t negate the time and sacrifice that goes into taking on the role of Premier. The work is never easy. The days are long and often difficult, as I’m sure today is. I wish Jason the best.”

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Conrad van Hierden, constituency association president for Livingstone-Macleod: “I respect Jason’s decision. It’s going to be tough going forward for a little bit … but we need to unite as a party and we need to find a leader who can do that, because right now we are divided.”

UCP MLA Brian Jean: “No one understands political traditions and conventions more than Jason Kenney and I want to thank him for his decent and honourable concession.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: “Thank you @jkenney for all your contributions. Through the challenges of the past two years and decades of public service, you’ve been a voice for Alberta and Albertans, and I wish you all the best in the years ahead.”

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe: “Thank you to my friend Premier @jkenney for everything you have done to unite Alberta conservative voters into a new party, defeat a destructive NDP government and lead Alberta through a very challenging time.”

Former federal Progressive Conservative leader Rona Ambrose: “@jkenney my friend, the people of this province owe you a debt of gratitude. You took a province economically ravaged by the NDP & turned it into a thriving place to live and work again. B/c of you less kids will leave our home for jobs somewhere else. I’m so proud of you.”

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson: “@jkenney has dedicated his career to serving the people of his province and country. Proud to call him a friend and colleague. Wishing him all the best in his next endeavours.”

Former B.C. premier Christy Clark: “Sad tonite to see @jkenney step down. Under his leadership, Alta found a way thru dark times and is now better positioned to thrive than any other prov. Thx for your work PJK. You always tried to do the right thing not just the popular one. Canada is a better country bc of it.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 18, 2022.

The Canadian Press