Speaker for the Alberta legislature and MLA for Old-Didsbury-Three Hills, Nathan Cooper, is heading to Washington in a new position to help build and maintain relationships with Canada's largest trading partner.
On Wednesday, May 7, Speaker Cooper announced to the assembly that he would be stepping down as speaker and MLA.
“I believe we are in a critical time for our country in respect to how we interact with the world and with the United States of America. How we do that interaction, I believe is just as important as what we do to interact," he said to those sitting in the Legislature. “Recently, the Premier asked if I would serve as the senior representative to the United States of America based in Washington DC, and I have accepted that offer.”
Cooper has served as MLA for Olds-Didisbury -Three Hills for 10 years. Prior to this, he was a Carstairs Town councillor and served as chief of staff and director of legislative affairs for the Wildrose caucus.
He was elected by his fellow MLA as the 14th Speaker of the Alberta Legislature in 2019, and was the longest-serving Speaker in Canada.
“Alberta has seen a lot of success in building its relationship with U.S. decision makers, and much of that success is thanks to the hard work of James Rajotte as Alberta’s Senior Representative to the U.S. In this evolving landscape, Alberta must maintain and build on our ties with U.S. officials, and Nathan Cooper is the right choice to fill this important role,” said Premier Danielle Smith. “I look forward to continuing to work closely with Nathan as we advocate for Albertans and for our province’s interests in Washington and across the U.S.”
Support for Cooper in his new role comes from across the floor.
“Team Canada needs a strong Alberta in Washington, and Alberta needs strong representation for our trading interests. There might be some tough days ahead for the relationship between Canada and the United States, but I know Nathan Cooper will work hard for Albertans and a strong Canada,” said Shannon Phillips, former NDP Minister of Environment and Protected Areas.
He officially stepped down as Speaker on Monday, May 12, allowing the legislature to make arrangements to elect a new speaker.
He is honoured to take on the new position.
“I’m honoured to be entrusted by Premier Danielle Smith with this critical assignment at such a pivotal time. Now more than ever, I see this as a vital opportunity to strengthen and advance Alberta’s long-standing relationship with the United States, ensuring stability and collaboration amid global uncertainty,” he said.
