The organizer of a petition to recall Brooks-Medicine Hat MLA Danielle Smith says it has been approved by Elections Alberta to begin collecting signatures. It would take more than 12,000 people in the premier's riding to then move to a recall vote.--CP FILE PHOTO
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
A recall petition for Premier and Brooks-Medicine Hat MLA Danielle Smith has been approved by Elections Alberta, organizers are telling reporters.
Applicant Heather VanSnick says she does not see this as a partisan issue, but more so addressing Smith’s lack of presence and meaningful engagement with this community.
“I’ve tried to stop by her office myself,” said VanSnick. “But she’s never there for me to approach. The constituents in her riding that I have talked to have had a very hard time contacting her. That is the consistent message that I’m getting, that nobody can get a hold of her. They can’t find her. She doesn’t return emails.”
She says Smith lacks a connection with the community, with her riding chosen for what VanSnick believes is a sure win due to the heavy conservative presence, but there has been a failure to engage with and truly represent the riding.
Voters are also concerned about Smith’s repeated use of the notwithstanding clause, according to statement distributed by the petition organizers. The recall effort includes voters across the political spectrum who feel unheard and unrepresented.
Presently, Smith has seven days from Tuesday to respond, which has not yet happened at time of writing. VanSnick believes that once those seven days have elapsed they will be able to begin registering canvassers and collecting signatures.
More than 12,000 signatures would be needed to complete the recall process and force government’s hand.
Elections Alberta has served notice to Smith and Speaker Ric McIver, VanSnick says.
Those with questions can contact organizers at recall.daniellesmith@gmail.com.
