In a move that could change Alberta's political landscape in the coming years, the Buffalo Party of Alberta has officially changed its name to the "Republican Party of Alberta."
The change marks a significant rebranding for the party, known for its advocacy for Alberta's autonomy over Ottawa and conservative values.
The Buffalo Party advocated for decentralizing federal power and promoting provincial rights. The name change, effective February 10, signals a potential shift in strategy to align more closely with Alberta conservatives who are dissatisfied with the UCP.
The rebranding comes at a time when Alberta's political scene is increasingly focused on issues of sovereignty, economic policy, the role of the province within Canada, and U.S. tariffs.
The Buffalo Party of Alberta was registered as a political party with Elections Alberta on January 20, 2022. The first leader of the party was John Molberg. The party held a launch event in Calgary on May 12, 2022.
The party ran one candidate in the 2023 election, in Edmonton-Strathcona. In March 2024, Andrew Jacobson was listed by Elections Alberta as the new interim leader of the party.