From Journalist To Premier - The Rise Of Danielle Smith
Danielle Smith is a well-known figure in Canadian politics, having served as the leader of the Wildrose Party in Alberta from 2009 to 2014. But before she entered politics, Smith was a journalist, working for various media outlets in Alberta and across the country. In this article, we will take a closer look at Smith's background as a journalist, her transition to politics, and her rise to become one of the most influential voices in Alberta politics.
Early Life and Education
Danielle Smith was born in Calgary, Alberta in 1971. She grew up in High River, a small town south of Calgary, and attended the University of Calgary, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1993. After graduation, she began her career as a journalist, working for various media outlets in Alberta and across the country.
Journalism Career
Smith's journalism career began in the early 1990s, when she worked as a reporter for the Calgary Herald. She later worked for the Calgary Sun and the National Post, where she covered a wide range of topics, including politics, business, and the environment.
One of Smith's most notable assignments as a journalist was her coverage of the 2002 Alberta election, in which the Progressive Conservative Party, led by Ralph Klein, won a landslide victory. Smith's reporting on the election helped to establish her as a respected voice in Alberta politics.
Transition to Politics
Despite her success as a journalist, Smith began to feel frustrated with the state of politics in Alberta. She felt that the Progressive Conservative government had become complacent and out of touch with the needs of ordinary Albertans. In 2006, she decided to enter politics, running for the leadership of the Alberta Alliance Party.
Although Smith did not win the leadership race, she gained valuable experience and made important connections within the conservative movement in Alberta. In 2009, she became the leader of the newly-formed Wildrose Party, which was created by a group of disaffected conservatives who were unhappy with the direction of the Progressive Conservative government.
Rise to Power
Under Smith's leadership, the Wildrose Party quickly gained popularity, thanks in part to its strong stance on issues such as fiscal responsibility, limited government, and property rights. In the 2012 provincial election, the party won 17 seats in the Alberta Legislature, making it the official opposition to the ruling Progressive Conservatives.
Smith's rise to power was not without controversy, however. In 2014, she and eight other Wildrose MLAs crossed the floor to join the Progressive Conservative government, citing concerns about the party's direction and leadership. The move was widely criticized by Wildrose supporters, who felt betrayed by their elected representatives.
After leaving politics, Smith continued to be involved in public life, serving as a radio host and commentator on political issues. She also founded the Alberta Enterprise Group, a business advocacy organization that promotes free enterprise and economic growth in the province.
Legacy
Danielle Smith's legacy in Alberta politics is complex. On the one hand, she was a trailblazer for conservative politics in the province, helping to establish the Wildrose Party as a viable alternative to the Progressive Conservatives. She was also a strong advocate for limited government, fiscal responsibility, and individual freedom, positions that continue to resonate with many Albertans today.
On the other hand, Smith's decision to cross the floor to join the Progressive Conservative government was seen by many as a betrayal of the principles she had espoused as leader of the Wildrose Party. The move damaged her reputation and led to a period of turmoil within the conservative movement in Alberta.
Despite these controversies, however, Smith remains a respected figure in Alberta politics. Her experience as a journalist and her commitment to conservative principles have made her a valuable voice in the public debate on issues such as energy, the environment, and the role of government in society.
Conclusion
Danielle Smith's journey from journalist to premier is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one's principles. Although her time as leader of the Wildrose Party was marked by both success and controversy, she remains a respected figure in Alberta politics, advocating for limited government, fiscal responsibility, and individual freedom. As Alberta faces a challenging economic and political environment, Smith's views on key issues will continue to be an important part of the conversation.
