Alberta legislature’s lone independent MLA, Scott Sinclair, issued an apology to his former colleagues in the governing United Conservative Party (UCP) during a session on Wednesday. He pledged to support the government moving forward after being ousted from the caucus in March 2025.
Background of the Dispute
Sinclair, the MLA for Lesser Slave Lake, was removed from the UCP caucus after publicly criticizing the 2025 provincial budget. He described the budget as “indefensible” and “unacceptable” in a social media post, claiming it failed to address concerns in his riding and northern Alberta. His remarks led to his expulsion from the party caucus.
Apology and Reconciliation
On Wednesday, Sinclair read a members’ statement expressing regret for his earlier comments. “There are moments in this role that I’m not proud of; in particular, some of the things I said about former colleagues and teammates in government,” he stated. He acknowledged that while holding government accountable is essential, he was elected as a UCP member and should have recognized government investments in northern Alberta. “I look forward to working with this government and supporting this premier,” he added.
Political Fallout
Sinclair also previously opposed an early version of the province’s electoral map that would have consolidated his constituency. In July 2025, he and fellow former UCP member Peter Guthrie discussed reviving the Progressive Conservative Party brand. Guthrie later joined the Alberta Party, which rebranded as the Progressive Tory Party, while Sinclair remained independent. The Alberta Legislative Assembly currently comprises 47 UCP members, 38 NDP members, Guthrie as the lone Progressive Tory, and Sinclair as the only independent.
Postmedia sought comment from Sinclair and the UCP caucus, but neither responded by Wednesday.
