UCP Minister Rebecca Schulz resigns from Alberta cabinet

UCP Minister Rebecca Schulz announced Wednesday she is resigning from cabinet, but will continue as the MLA for Calgary-Shaw until May 2026.

Rebecca Schulz Resigns from Alberta Cabinet

“Timing is everything in life and in politics, and it is time for me to seek new opportunities in my career,” Schulz said in a notice published on social media.

First elected in April 2019, Schulz served as minister of environment and protected areas before stepping down. She previously held the portfolios of children’s services and municipal affairs. Schulz ran unsuccessfully for the United Conservative Party leadership in 2022.

The announcement has prompted speculation about a possible early provincial election. Duane Bratt, a political scientist with Mount Royal University, noted the timing, stating, “The first thing I thought when I saw it was: is this another sign of an early election call?” He pointed to several referendums scheduled for 2026 and growing speculation about an election before the fixed date in the fall of 2027.

Schulz has a background in communications and is a mother of two young children. She is currently the subject of active recall campaigns, with more than two dozen MLAs facing similar efforts.

In her statement, Schulz expressed gratitude for the leadership of former premier Jason Kenney and current Premier Danielle Smith in maintaining conservative unity. “I hope my legacy is one of being a strong representative — responding to people’s concerns, and their hopes and aspirations for our province, advocating for economic growth, limited and fiscally-responsible government, and making life better for Albertans,” she said.

Schulz pledged to support the UCP in the next election. She declined an interview with CBC News, referring to her published statement.

Premier Smith publicly thanked Schulz and wished her well in her future endeavors. She announced that Grant Hunter, MLA for Taber-Warner and associate minister of water, will become the new minister of environment and protected areas. Justin Wright, MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat, will be the new government whip for the UCP caucus.