Smith defends Alberta electoral map against gerrymandering allegations
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is defending a proposed electoral map against accusations of gerrymandering, arguing the changes provide better representation. The opposition NDP has threatened legal action if the government proceeds with the map.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights concerns over the integrity of electoral boundary processes and the potential for ruling parties to manipulate districts for political gain.
The new electoral map is expected to be debated on Wednesday afternoon in the Alberta Legislature. DAPHNE LEMELIN/AFP/Getty Images
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is rejecting allegations that an independent panel has torqued the province’s electoral map to favour her United Conservative Party, saying the recommended changes to redraw the boundaries are reasonable and would give voters better representation.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Ms. Smith said she also endorses changes to the electoral map in southern Alberta , which have become the greatest source of contention since the province’s proposed boundaries were released publicly the day before.
The new map proposes eliminating one of Lethbridge’s two urban ridings while creating three new districts that mix the city’s suburban neighbourhoods with swaths of rural southern Alberta.
The change has provoked charges of gerrymandering, the U.S.-style practice of manipulating boundaries to give one party an unfair advantage in elections.
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