Alberta Premier Jason Kenney shocked many Wednesday evening when he announced his intention to step down as the leader of the United Conservative Party.
The decision came after Kenney received 51.4 per cent support in his leadership review vote. While it was enough by party rules to remain at the helm, Kenney said that was not adequate support to continue on as party leader.
“The result is not what I hoped for or frankly what I expected,” Kenney said Wednesday at the Spruce Meadows equestrian centre before a crowd that included several cabinet ministers.
“That is why tonight I’ve informed the president of the party of my intention to step down as leader of the United Conservative Party.”
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Alberta Premier Jason Kenney intends to step down as UCP leader after narrow leadership win
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Political reaction to the move came in swift, from the prime minister, federal party leaders, as well as fellow and past premiers.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau thanked Kenney for his 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,” he said on Twitter.
Interim federal Conservative Leader Candice Bergen thanked her friend for his many years of service to both Canada and Alberta.
“Whether at the federal level as a Minister of the Crown or as the Premier of Alberta, you have inspired and engaged so many.”
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UCP begins search for new leader with Jason Kenney stepping down
“Thank you to my friend Premier Jason Kenney 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,” Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said.
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