Rebecca Schulz, the Alberta United Conservative Party MLA for Calgary-Shaw, has resigned from cabinet amid a recall petition. A statement from the Government of Alberta said Premier Danielle Smith accepted Schulz’s resignation effective Jan. 2. “I would like to offer my sincere appreciation and most heartfelt thanks to the Honourable Rebecca Schulz,” said Smith in a statement Wednesday morning. “I wish Rebecca and her family all the best when she seeks new career opportunities.” Schulz served as minister of environment and protected areas since 2023 and as MLA for Calgary-Shaw since 2019. She previously served as the minister of children services and as minister of municipal affairs. In accordance with election legislation, a byelection will be called within six months of Schulz’s formal resignation. She will continue to serve as the MLA for Calgary-Shaw and as member of the UCP caucus until the spring, said Smith. Grant Hunter, MLA for Taber-Warner and associate minister for water, will be sworn in as Alberta’s new minister of environment and protected areas. A petition to recall Schulz was initiated on Dec. 2. There are another 25 MLAs facing recall petitions, including the premier. The province said the next general election will be on Oct. 18, 2027. Smith has noted that she doesn’t intend on calling an early election. In addition to the cabinet shuffle, Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA Justin Wright will become the chief government whip for the UCP caucus.
