Cabinet Shake-Up Hits Calgary-Shaw: Schulz Steps Down, By-Election Looms
We’re hearing that Rebecca Schulz, our Environment Minister, is stepping away from her roles in the Alberta legislature. People are buzzing about what this means for Calgary-Shaw and the wider community.
The Political Landscape Shifts
Calgarians, brace yourselves for a significant shake-up in the provincial political landscape. Environment Minister Rebecca Schulz announced on December 31, 2025, her decision to resign from cabinet, effective Friday, January 2, 2026, and will also be leaving her post as the United Conservative Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Calgary-Shaw by May 2026. This isn't just a reshuffling of desks at The Bow; it means a fresh face for Ward 11 residents and potentially, a costly new election on the horizon.
By The Numbers: A Closer Look at the Transition
Schulz, who first took the MLA seat for Calgary-Shaw in 2019, has been a familiar face in various portfolios, including Minister of Children Services and Minister of Municipal Affairs, before her most recent role as Minister of Environment and Protected Areas. Premier Danielle Smith swiftly accepted the resignation, announcing Grant Hunter as the new environment minister. Schulz cited that "timing is everything" as she looks to pursue new career opportunities. However, this departure comes amidst a flurry of activity, specifically, recall petitions targeting 26 MLAs, including Schulz herself – a petition for Calgary-Shaw was approved by Elections Alberta on December 2, 2025, demanding 15,000 signatures by March 10, 2026.
Who Pays? Your Wallet, Calgary
The departure of an MLA doesn't just create a political void; it triggers a provincial by-election, and that comes with a hefty price tag for taxpayers. The Alberta Election Act mandates a by-election within six months of a vacancy being declared. We're not talking about spare change; the 2024 Lethbridge-West by-election alone cost Elections Alberta a staggering $415,180. For the folks in Calgary-Shaw and across the city, this means your provincial tax dollars will be funding the democratic process to find a new representative.
The Opposition Weighs In
The timing of Schulz's exit has not gone unnoticed by the opposition. Naheed Nenshi, leader of the Alberta NDP, minced no words on December 30, 2025, stating, "The walls are closing in on the UCP." He pointed to the United Conservative Party's slim majority and the destabilizing effect of ongoing recall petitions, with thirteen cabinet ministers facing such actions. For residents along the Deerfoot and throughout Calgary, this political turbulence raises questions about stability and effective governance.
The Verdict for Calgarians
So, what does this mean for the average Calgarian, especially those living in Calgary-Shaw? You'll soon have a new MLA to represent your interests in Edmonton, and you'll be footing the bill for the process. While Schulz moves on to new ventures, the government faces continued scrutiny and the potential for further instability. For Calgary-Shaw, the next few months will involve an active search for a new representative and a critical by-election that will shape both local and provincial politics. Keep an eye on your community, because your voice – and your vote – will be more important than ever.
