Alberta MLA Jennifer Johnson Rejoins United Conservative Party Caucus

The United Conservative Party (UCP) MLAs have voted to allow Lacombe-Ponoka MLA Jennifer Johnson to join their caucus. This decision comes after an internal caucus vote where Johnson addressed fellow members, stressing her community work and growth through engagement with the LGBTQ+ community.

Johnson had initially served as an independent MLA since entering the Alberta legislature last year. This followed Premier Danielle Smith‘s refusal to allow her to sit as a UCP MLA due to a controversial audio recording. During the provincial election campaign, the recording surfaced in which Johnson compared transgender students to feces mixed into cookies, saying, “That little bit of poop is what wrecks it.” Johnson has since apologized for her comments, reiterating her apology in a video posted online recently.

On the decision to welcome her back, UCP chief government whip Shane Getson stated, “Over the past 17 months, MLA Johnson has done a very good job as a local MLA.” He added that following thoughtful discussions, the caucus acknowledged her efforts and voted to include her in the government caucus.

Johnson’s reinstatement has sparked disappointment among 2SLGBTQ+ advocates. Victoria Bucholtz, a professor at Mount Royal University, criticized the caucus’s decision, stating that it illustrates a lack of genuine interest in learning about the trans and queer communities. Bucholtz noted that during a recent Zoom meeting with 2SLGBTQ+ representatives, Johnson failed to answer if she believed trans women are women.

Jonathan Luscombe of the Lacombe Pride Society expressed his dismay, noting that Johnson’s readmission occurs as the UCP prepares to introduce legislation restricting gender-affirming procedures and therapies for youth. “I’m heartbroken for the people in my community,” Luscombe wrote, reflecting on the upcoming debates regarding transgender rights in Alberta where Johnson will participate.

Despite criticism, some support Johnson’s reintegration into the caucus. Dusty Myshrall, who competed against Johnson for the UCP nomination, emphasized the importance of having a representative from the governing party for the constituency. Myshrall said, “We can all have disagreements, but we need to start having open conversations.”

The debate surrounding Johnson’s comments and her position in the UCP caucus highlights ongoing tensions within Alberta’s political landscape, particularly concerning LGBTQ+ issues. As the UCP’s annual general meeting approaches, Premier Danielle Smith is also facing a leadership vote, bringing further attention to these dynamics.