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Danielle SmithCanadian politician
Date of Birth: 01.04.1971
Country:  Canada |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Political Career
- Entry into Politics
- Wildrose Party
- Rejoining the Progressive Conservatives
- Departure from Electoral Politics
- Political Views
- Post-Political Career
Early Life and Education
Marleena Danielle Smith was born on April 1, 1971, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. She is the second of five children. Her paternal great-grandfather was a Ukrainian immigrant named Philip Kolodnytsky, whose surname was anglicized to Smith upon his arrival in Canada in 1915. Her family lived in subsidized housing during her childhood.
Smith studied at the University of Calgary, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Economics. While at university, she became active in federal and provincial Progressive Conservative politics and served as President of the university's Progressive Conservative Club.
Political Career
Calgary Herald and Global NewsAfter completing her degree, Smith joined the Calgary Herald as an editorial columnist. She later became host of Global Sunday, a national current events program on Global Television, replacing Charles Adler. Smith also hosted two radio programs covering healthcare policy and property rights.
Entry into Politics
In 1998, at the age of 27, Smith entered politics by running for a trustee position on the Calgary Board of Education. She won but was criticized for her confrontational style. After less than a year, the board's chair complained of a dysfunctional governance process, prompting the provincial education minister to dissolve the entire board. Smith later acknowledged her own role in the board's troubles.
Wildrose Party
Smith joined the Wildrose Party in 2009, after becoming disillusioned with the Progressive Conservatives' "free spending." She was elected as leader later that year and oversaw a surge in the party's support. Despite polls suggesting the Wildrose could unseat the ruling Progressive Conservatives in the 2012 provincial election, they ultimately received 17 seats and became the Official Opposition.
Rejoining the Progressive Conservatives
Merger Negotiations and ControversyIn 2014, Smith and several Wildrose MLAs defected to the Progressive Conservatives. This move was met with controversy, as it had been negotiated in secret between Smith and Progressive Conservative leader Jim Prentice. Smith cited financial responsibility as a primary reason for her decision.
Departure from Electoral Politics
Smith lost her bid for the Progressive Conservative nomination in her riding and subsequently left provincial politics. She joined CHQR, a Calgary radio station, as a host for their afternoon show.
Political Views
Smith identifies as a libertarian, particularly on moral issues. She supports abortion rights and same-sex marriage. Her political views have drawn comparisons to former Reform Party of Canada leader Preston Manning and former Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
Post-Political Career
Smith resides in High River, Alberta, and continues to work as a radio host for CHQR.
