Danielle Smith’s popularity dips as her party now tied with NDP in support: poll
Premier Danielle Smith's popularity has dipped, leaving her UCP party tied with the NDP in recent polling. Analysts attribute this to her struggle to navigate the polarizing debate over provincial independence.
Why it matters
The shift in polling suggests a highly competitive upcoming election and highlights the political risks of taking a middle-ground stance on divisive issues.
The Janet Brown Opinion Research Poll for CBC News suggests 41 per cent of respondents would vote for the UCP if an election were held today, while 41 per cent would vote for the NDP.
In a similar poll conducted this spring, pollster Janet Brown said Smith’s government was enjoying the longest honeymoon period since the Ralph Klein-era.
“I think the UCP is having a struggle navigating this difficult situation that we're in right now,” said Brown. “Having a controversial referendum, the premier taking one position on the referendum [and] also trying to advocate for the nine other questions.”
Brown says it appears the party is shedding support on both sides of the independence debate: from separatists who wish Smith had taken a stance of support, and federalists frustrated by the question in the first place.
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