UCP Leader Danielle Smith (left) and NDP Leader Rachel Notley (right) are set to face off in a leaders' debate on Thursday, May 18, 2023. (Photos: Danielle Smith and Rachel Notley on Facebook)

By Canadian Press

Danielle Smith, Rachel Notley set for Alberta leaders debate tonight

May 18, 2023 | 9:57 AM

CALGARY, AB – United Conservative Party (UCP) Leader Danielle Smith and NDP Leader Rachel Notley are scheduled to debate tonight as the May 29, 2023, Alberta election draws closer.

The debate begins at 6:00 p.m.

Smith was in Medicine Hat Wednesday night to debate against the two candidates running against her in the constituency of Brooks-Medicine Hat: the NDP’s Gwendoline Dirk and Alberta Party Leader Barry Morishita.

Topics during the two-hour debate ranged from the corporate tax rate and small businesses to health care and education.

After an audience member asked how the candidates would ensure the protection of LGBTQ children and adults, Smith said the issue should be depoliticized.

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Earlier in the day, the UCP candidate for Lacombe-Ponoka, Jennifer Johnson, apologized for comparing transgender children in schools to having feces in food.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 18, 2023.

Full election coverage: Alberta Votes 2023