Two Independent MLAs in Alberta have announced plans to revive a political party.
Former members of the United Conservative Party, Peter Guthrie and Scott Sinclair are planning to form a new party, under the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta name. The PC Party governed Alberta from 1971 to 2015.
In July 2017, members of the party and the Wildrose Party voted to approve a merger to become what is now known as the United Conservative Party, or UCP. That merger was formally approved, and the PC Party formally dissolved on February 7, 2020.
Guthrie is the current MLA of Airdrie-Cochrane and previously served as provincial Minister of Infrastructure, as well as Minister of Energy. He resigned in late February of this year after voicing concerns about the government’s procurement practices.
In April, Guthrie was removed from the party after he critiqued how the UCP was handling an investigation into allegations of corruption involving health contracts.
Sinclair, meanwhile, is the MLA for Lesser Slave Lake. He was removed from the UCP in March after criticizing the provincial budget.
The duo is hoping to offer an alternative government option for Albertans.
The two made the announcement during an appearance on Real Talk Ryan Jespersen.
Guthrie says they need 8,900 signatures to make their plan a reality but are hoping for roughly 30 per cent more than that. The MLAs hope to have the party ready by the fall.
