Central Peace-Notley MLA Todd Loewen was sworn in as UCP caucus chair in May, 2019 (Photo: Government of Alberta)

By Shaun Penner

Todd Loewen Speaks Out

MLA Loewen stepping down as UCP caucus chair, calls for Kenney to resign

May 13, 2021 | 1:08 AM

Central Peace-Notley MLA Todd Loewen has sent a letter to the United Conservative Party caucus, informing them that he will be stepping down as caucus chair.

Not only that, he is also calling for Premier Jason Kenney to resign as the party’s leader.

Loewen posted the letter late Wednesday night to his Facebook page, stating it was “best for him to resign this position to be able to speak freely”.

“I no longer believe the caucus can function properly; meetings have been cancelled without members’ consent, significant decisions of government have been made without notice of members, and our input as members is rarely considered,” said Loewen, in the letter.

Loewen does clarify that he does not intend to leave the party at this time.

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“Personally, I have helped build the conservative movement in the province for the last 13 years and have served faithfully as a public servant. I still uphold the principles and values under which I was elected.”

Loewen points to a number of “persistent problems” that have led to his decision, suggesting Kenney’s leadership is the root of those problems. He points to the province’s negotiations with physicians and the issues surrounding coal mining along the eastern slopes of the Rockies.

“Albertans have lost trust in the leadership of our government and are no longer willing to extend us any benefit of the doubt on most issues.”

He goes on to suggest a lot of dysfunction within the caucus is directly caused by Kenney’s leadership, citing “contradictory, confusing and needlessly inflammatory” messaging.

“The people of Alberta have lost trust in this government because you have not brought needed balance and reason to the discussion,” writes Loewen.

“Albertans and our UCP party members deserve better.”

Loewen goes on to say he feels the party is viewed as “out-of-touch and arrogant”, adding constituents expect their issues to be brought forward to the government.

He says in most cases, those calls have gone unanswered.

“When the Premier chooses not to listen to caucus, is it any wonder why the people choose to stop listening to the government?”

“Our supporters and those I represent can no longer tolerate this.”

Loewen adds UCP MLAs did not “unite around blind loyalty to one man”, and is calling for a change in leadership.

“I know that many Albertans, including myself, no longer have confidence in your leadership.

“I thank you for your service, but I am asking that you resign so that we can begin to put the province back together again.”

Loewen’s full letter to the Premier and the UCP caucus can be found below:

Courtesy: Todd Loewen / Facebook

Courtesy: Todd Loewen / Facebook