Nenshi nominated in Edmonton Strathcona

The Alberta NDP have already chosen their man — but now it's more official.

NDP leader Naheed Nenshi has been nominated as the candidate for Edmonton-Strathcona — the seat formerly occupied by Rachel Notley.

The nomination event — a packed house — took place at Hazeldean Community League on Wednesday evening marking a pivotal moment for Nenshi — who has dedicated years of his life to public service — and the NDP as they gear up for a byelection.

"We have a government today that is more interested in scoring political points, that is more interested in making friends with the likes of Tucker Carlson," said Nenshi in criticism of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.

Nenshi, who served as mayor of Calgary for 11 years, took over the leadership of Alberta's NDP in June 2024 with 86% of the vote.

His decision to run in Edmonton-Strathcona followed the resignation of Notley — who was a formidable opponent to her political foes in the legislature.

The riding has been an NDP stronghold for nearly 40 years, with only a brief interruption from 1993 to 1997 when it was held by a Liberal MLA.

Nenshi, a vociferous UCP and Danielle Smith critic, has been vocal about his commitment to representing Alberta families with thoughtful, solution-oriented policies.

He criticizes Smith over potential coal mining, transgender rights, U.S.-Canada relations, and the Alberta Pension Plan — among many other matters.