Alberta's fledgling Progressive Tory Party has officially nominated its first candidate, marking a significant step for the political organization. Bonnie Critchley, a retired member of the Canadian Armed Forces, will represent the party in the upcoming by-election for the provincial Camrose riding. This nomination comes as the party, under the leadership of MLA Peter Guthrie, seeks to establish a stronger presence in Alberta politics.
Critchley, who previously garnered attention for running against Pierre Poilievre in a federal by-election, stated her decision to run again was motivated by recent UCP government actions. Specifically, she cited the passage of bills that invoked the notwithstanding clause, which she believes infringes on Albertans' rights. "The UCP gave themselves the ability to make and get royal assent for a bill in a single day that removed rights of Albertans," Critchley said in an interview. This sentiment has resonated with others, prompting her to "reluctantly" enter the provincial race.
The Progressive Tory Party, formerly the Alberta Party, underwent a rebranding in late 2025. Leader Peter Guthrie, a former UCP MLA, has been working to rebuild the party's base. Critchley has indicated that a Progressive Tory government would prioritize enacting new accountability legislation to ensure consequences for political corruption. The party is also reportedly looking to field a candidate in the Calgary-Shaw by-election, although this has not been officially confirmed.
