A recall petition targeting Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has received formal approval from Elections Alberta. Organizers announced the approval on Wednesday, although the petition has not yet been posted on Elections Canada’s website. A letter from Chief Electoral Officer Gordon McClure confirmed that the petition meets the necessary requirements under the Recall Act.

Heather V., one of the petition organizers who requested anonymity for safety reasons, expressed concerns about Smith's engagement with her constituents. "She has no meaningful connection to the community, and constituents have been struggling to get a hold of her to express their concerns," Heather stated. The petition was initiated due to what organizers describe as Smith's lack of presence and involvement in the Brooks-Medicine Hat riding.

Smith is the 15th member of the United Conservative Party (UCP) to face a recall petition. To trigger a byelection, the petitioners must gather over 12,000 signatures from residents within a three-month period. This follows the approval of similar petitions against 14 other UCP MLAs, including several cabinet ministers.

During a recent UCP annual general meeting, Smith criticized the recall process, claiming it is being misused. Justice Minister Mickey Amery later stated that the government does not plan to amend the Recall Act in the current legislative session.

In a statement, the UCP caucus reiterated its stance on the recall process, emphasizing that it should not be used to overturn democratic elections based on policy disagreements. "Recalls are meant to address breaches of trust, serious misconduct, or a sustained failure to represent constituents, not political disagreements," the statement read. The caucus affirmed its commitment to focusing on economic growth, tax reduction, and creating opportunities for Albertans.

Smith has until December 9 to submit a 100-word statement explaining why she believes the recall campaign is unwarranted. The petition organizers have cited dissatisfaction with her performance, particularly regarding her handling of local issues, including the recent teachers' strike. Heather V. criticized Smith for not consulting local experts and for advancing policies that undermine public services.

The recall effort reflects growing discontent among constituents who feel disconnected from their elected representative. As the situation develops, the outcome of the petition will depend on the organizers' ability to mobilize support within the community.