Endorsements

Ray Martin

Leader of the Alberta NDP 1984-1994, MLA for Edmonton-Norwood 1982–1993, MLA for Edmonton-Beverley-Clareview 2004-2008, Edmonton Public School Board trustee 2013-2017

I fully support Sarah Hoffman to become the next leader of the Alberta NDP. I know Sarah well as she worked for us in the Legislature and served with me as a school trustee on the Edmonton Public School Board. She would be an outstanding leader of our party and I look forward to her becoming the Premier of our Province. Go Sarah Go!!!

Dr. Luanne Metz

MLA for Calgary-Varsity, Official Opposition Critic for Health, Neurologist and Medical Researcher.

I’m with Sarah because no one has done more for public healthcare in our party. She was by far the best Health Minister Alberta has had. She was open and honest in negotiating physician compensation and as a result we (doctors) returned our annual retention bonuses because Alberta didn't have a problem retaining doctors and we trusted Sarah.

Sarah believes in public healthcare and public education and will make both better for us all. She is always honest and has taken expert advice to put together a great healthcare plan that will result in 1000 more doctors and 3000 more nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and clinical assistants.

Women like Sarah aren’t supposed to run for office. As she says, she’s fat, sassy, and says what she means. Men can get away with that, but women get judged. Sarah’s knocked on hundreds of thousands of doors for the NDP. She is open, transparent and a natural leader and she will make a wonderful premier. That’s why I'm proud to vote for her as my top pick to lead our party and I encourage you to do the same.

Heather McPherson

MP for Edmonton Strathcona, NDP Critic for Foreign Affairs and International Development, Deputy Critic for Canadian Heritage

I’m thrilled to endorse Sarah Hoffman as the next leader of the Alberta NDP. I want to thank all candidates for the work they are doing to build our party and for putting their names forward. Sarah is on the top of my ballot and here’s why.

Sarah will advance our legacy as Tommy Douglas’ Medicare party by making sure Albertans benefit from dental care, universal access for birth control and diabetes medication, and stronger public healthcare. Like me, she is a proud Albertan and a proud Canadian.

She has proven we can win when we own our values and work hard.

Sarah is a winner. She builds teams, and with her hard work and unwavering commitment to our values, she will become the next Premier.

Barrie Chivers

Barrie Chivers K.C., Alberta NDP MLA for Edmonton-Strathcona 1990-1993, former President of the Trade Union Lawyers’ Association, former vice president of the Canadian Association of Labour Lawyers

Sarah Hoffman has an exemplary and impressive record of public service at the school board level and in the Alberta Legislative Assembly.

We need an experienced leader, one who has proven herself prepared to work hard and earn the respect and support of Albertan’s. And no one works harder than Sarah - she has won five consecutive elections that way!

As a lawyer, my practice, and that of the law firm which I co-founded, revolved around employment rights and human rights of workers.

I know that Sarah Hoffman is a strong advocate who is committed to advancing workers rights and conditions of employment and to protecting human and Charter rights of all Albertans.

I have known Sarah for many years and she has earned my trust, respect, and support.

I urge Alberta New Democrats to join me in putting Sarah Hoffman at the top of their ballot.

Julie Hrdlicka

former Calgary Board of Education Trustee

As a long time NDP member I’m proud to see Sarah Hoffman taking a firm position in support of public education and working to keep public funds in public schools. For too long charter and private schools have circumvented oversight and accountability while limiting access to students. Public school boards have been held to the highest standard of accountability and accept every student. As a former CBE public school trustee, I had a front row seat to the inequity that has crept into Alberta education.

As a former fellow trustee Sarah fully understands the challenges that face public education and I believe she has the skills to navigate and take on this problem head on. I believe that Sarah Hoffman has the experience, integrity and vision to lead the NDP and Alberta forward. I endorse Sarah Hoffman to be the next Leader of the Alberta NDP and the next Premier of Alberta.

Dr. Phillip van der Merwe

Founder of the Calgary West Central PCN, Provincial PCN Physician Leads Executive Co-Chair, AMA Section of General Practice 2019 Outstanding Service Award recipient, Alberta NDP 2017 candidate Calgary-Lougheed

Sarah was always well-informed on each aspect of her file despite a monstrously steep learning curve. She was always respectful, kind and personable with a wonderfully wicked sense of humour to boot. Here was a politician who understood that she wasn’t a health care expert and that listening to experts and evidence was the key to success. Make no mistake, she had razor sharp questions and was able to challenge us as we discussed reforms, but her ego didn’t get in the way and her comportment was always impeccable.

Under her watch we were able to move the dial on primary care reform further than ever before. We were leading the nation as we trail-blazed the Patient’s Medical Home as the standard of care.

Sarah is comfortable in her own skin, intelligent, competent. As both Health Minister and Deputy Premier, she has demonstrated she is the most capable person to lead the party forward.

Lori Sigurdson

Alberta NDP MLA for Edmonton-Riverview

I have had the pleasure of serving with Sarah for three terms now and when she told me she was considering running to be our next leader, I knew immediately she was the right person for the job. She is tenacious, caring and one of the hardest working people I know. That is the type of leader we need to form government again, and I believe Sarah will make that happen. She brings people together, and that is what our party needs more than ever given the polarization of politics these days. I am thrilled to support Sarah in this leadership race, and I hope you will support her too!

Graham Sucha

Alberta NDP MLA for Calgary-Shaw, 2015-2019

In 2015, I ran for the NDP in Stephen Harper and Jason Kenney's riding because my kids' school was overcrowded, and family members of mine received inadequate cancer care. After being awarded that seat I was so impressed by Sarah Hoffman's leadership at the cabinet table. She ensured Calgarians were taken care of by building over 100 schools and finally getting the Calgary Cancer Centre built.

As we enter 2024, new problems emerge, climate change is impacting the health of our kids, and as my children grow up I worry that they won’t be able to afford to live or raise their family in this province.

Now is not the time for watered down policies, now is the time for bold action and NDP values. That, a proven track record of winning, and the ability to build bridges in conservative strongholds is what Hoffman brings to the table and why I am supporting her in this leadership race.

Linda Duncan

former NDP MP, Edmonton-Strathcona

I am pleased to support Sarah Hoffman who has critical governing experience and a proven track record on protecting public education and public health care. Sarah is grounded in community and, like so many others, I've been drawn to her immediate warmth and vitality. Her experience, energy and compassion will make her a strong Leader of the Alberta NDP.

Lito Mendoza Velasco

Filipino Servant-Leader

Sarah Hoffman is the very best choice for the next leader of the Alberta NDP. Sarah is a great friend and supporter of the Filipino community in Alberta. As Deputy Premier, she proclaimed June as Phillipine Heritage Month in Alberta. For many years she has regularly attended community events. She is well known and well respected.

I admire Sarah’s commitment to helping families, protecting working people, and making sure that quality education and healthcare are easily available to all. In public and in private she upholds our values of malasakit and bayanihan.

I will vote for Sarah Hoffman to be Leader of the Alberta NDP, and I encourage others to as well.

Nathan Ip

Alberta NDP MLA Edmonton - South West

I have known Sarah for over a decade, and in that time, she has proven to be one of the hardest working people I know. And while we haven’t always agreed, I can promise you that she will always fight for what is right, even when it is difficult to do. That takes courage, and Sarah has it.

I served alongside Sarah at the Edmonton Public School Board, and now have the pleasure of serving alongside her as MLA. I know Sarah will ensure we have a more equitable and vibrant Alberta, and not just in our urban centres, but in every corner of this province! She’s curious, caring, smart, tenacious and empathetic - all qualities we would be lucky to have in our next Premier of Alberta!

Sarah is offering a bold and courageous vision for our province. Alberta needs that kind of leadership, now more than ever.

Katherine Swampy

Campaign Co-Chair, Alberta NDP 2023 candidate in Maskwacis-Wetaskiwin, federal NDP candidate, former councillor for the Samson Cree First Nation

I am honoured to serve as Co-Chair on Sarah’s campaign to become the next leader of the Alberta NDP and Premier of Alberta. When Sarah asked if I’d join her team, it was an easy decision. I ran for the NDP because I believe in social justice and equity for all, and so does Sarah. I believe that public health care is a right and not a luxury, and so does Sarah. She is the leader we need to ensure that all Albertans have access to quality health care, affordable housing and meaningful action on climate change.

Trisha Estabrooks

Canada’s NDP candidate for Edmonton-Centre, former Edmonton School Board Board Chair (2019 -2023)

Sarah is a true New Democrat, who like me, understands that everyone deserves the same access to health care, housing and education. She also understands that you should always fight for what you believe in and she has done that successfully for years as a school board trustee, Minister of Health, Deputy Premier and MLA. Sarah has fought the values that she believes in for her entire life. That is why she is the best person to continue to fight for these values as the next leader of the Alberta NDP and our next Premier of Alberta!

Bob Wanner

former Alberta NDP MLA Medicine Hat & Speaker of the Alberta Legislature (2015-2019)

After much careful consideration I have made the decision to support Sarah Hoffman as the next leader of the Alberta New Democratic Party. As Rachel Notley's Deputy Premier, Sarah demonstrated the determination, commitment and compassion to defend representative democracy for all Albertans. The province is currently divided between rural and urban. That must change. And Sarah can and will do that. She was born and raised in rural Alberta so she understands how important agriculture and rural economic growth is to the future of our province. She also understands the needs of urban Alberta. I truly believe Sarah can bring all Albertans together again.

Sarah Hoffman is tough and incredibly hardworking. It will take that kind of energy to bring Alberta together again. Most importantly Sarah cares.

Donna Hokiro

President, United Steelworkers Local 1944

Why Sarah? For me, that’s an easy question to answer. She’s intelligent, hardworking, and dedicated to the very things I believe in. She is passionate and fierce, yet warm and shows empathy as a natural way of being.

She cares that we all have a safe place to live, and she will do something about our housing crisis once Premier. Sarah cherishes the environment and will help us be stewards of our lands, our waters, and, yes, our mountaintops. I know that once Sarah is governing, she’ll fix our healthcare system! This I believe with my whole heart. Sarah is a winner because she is a fighter and has always fought for us, workers, families, children, and others who have been forgotten; Sarah has always been our champion. Sarah has my unwavering support because she shares my NDP values, and with more and more folks entering the race, many do not. We must all fight for our party now more than ever. A vote for Sarah is a vote for a party that we all can be proud of and a future Premier who will always put people first.

Anand Sharma

former President of the Alberta NDP

Sarah Hoffman has built this party brick by brick over the past two decades through her tireless work – meeting Albertans in their communities, fundraising and finding excellent candidates in every corner of our province, and standing up for our values inside and outside the legislature. She will lead our party with integrity and the dedication needed to win the next election. I firmly believe the Alberta NDP needs a leader who authentically represents NDP values rather than watering them down. I am proud to endorse Sarah and encourage every party member to join me in voting, donating, and volunteering for Sarah!

Peggy Wright

Teacher, School Administrator, Past President of the Alberta NDP, and MLA for Edmonton-Beverly-Clareview

I’ve known Sarah for years. I fondly recall many a conversation as we got to know each other, sharing stories about our lives, experiences, dreams. More than one of those stories was punctuated by Sarah’s fierce sense of humour!

My time as a teacher overlapped with Sarah’s service as trustee and Chair of the Edmonton Public School Board. During those years, Sarah led the board through some really difficult times, never once wavering in her commitment to children, their families, and staff.

I was pleased to stand alongside her then, and now, I’m also proud to serve side by side with Sarah. She is a colleague, a mentor, and a leader, to so many, including myself. During the 2023 election, Sarah worked tirelessly to not only grow our party, but to make sure Albertans understood that NDP values ARE Albertan values.

Sarah's deep love for this province and its people, and her forward-looking vision for what’s possible, fill me with hope.

I’m so proud to endorse Sarah as Leader of the Alberta NDP, and the next Premier of Alberta.

Shelagh Dunn

former Edmonton Public School Board Trustee & Board Vice Chair (2019-2020)

I am thrilled that Sarah Hoffman is running for leader of the Alberta NDP. As a school board Trustee, I had the privilege to work alongside Sarah on advocacy for student mental health. I saw firsthand the many ways that Sarah provided leadership as health minister, and the way she fought for the needs of students and families as education critic. She has been an exceptional leader and role model, and I know that she will never stop fighting for social democrat values. I believe that her combination of strength and compassion is what our province needs in its next Premier.

Alex McEachern

Alberta NDP MLA for Edmonton-Kingsway 1986-1993, longtime party activist

Sarah Hoffman has the experience, intelligence and courage to be leader of the Alberta NDP and premier of our province. Few politicians are as good as her at relating to voters. Her interactions are friendly and direct. I’ve also been impressed by the way she is able to stay calm and keep her cool under pressure, at a time when politics has become increasingly partisan and nasty. Her experience as chair of the public school board and as Minister of Health and Deputy Premier make her an excellent choice for our next leader.

Cam Heenan

Alberta NDP Candidate, Leduc - Beaumont 2023

As a former colleague of Sarah’s, I was able to see her leadership skills firsthand and I know that with her at the helm, the best days for Alberta’s NDP are ahead of us. She brings people together and that is exactly what we need in our next leader. All of Alberta needs to be represented in the Alberta NDP, and Sarah’s rural upbringing makes her the perfect candidate to share the values of our party with rural Albertans. She knows what rural communities need. She spent much of her life in one. Sarah has been successfully bringing people together in every corner of this province for years behind the scenes and she is the perfect person to continue to bring people together as Alberta’s next Premier.

Mandy Lamoureux

President of CUPE Local 3550

Sarah is a champion for working people, for public education, for women, and for Alberta NDP values. She got her start in public life campaigning to keep neighbourhood schools open, and she defeated a well-known incumbent trustee in the process. As a trustee and as chair of the Edmonton Public School Board, she kept those schools open and protected the jobs of our members who support kids’ learning.

As Deputy Premier, she helped build and modernize hundreds of Alberta schools. As Critic for Education, she was a powerful advocate for students, staff and families as we dealt with a pandemic and a hostile provincial government.

Sarah is always working to lift up people around her and build a better society.

I enthusiastically endorse Sarah Hoffman to be Leader of the Alberta NDP and the next Premier of Alberta!

Marlin Schmidt

Alberta NDP MLA Edmonton - Goldbar

I've worked alongside Sarah Hoffman in both government and opposition. She has proved she has strong leadership skills, but what stands out most about her is the warmth and caring she brings to everything she does. She is one of the most relatable politicians I know. She truly wants to make a difference in the lives of ordinary Albertans and it shows in her everyday interactions with people. She has a rock solid foundation in NDP values and will stay true to them. I am pleased to support her as the next Leader of our Party.

Anam Kazim

Anam Kazim, Alberta NDP MLA for Calgary-Glenmore 2015-2019

First and foremost, Sarah's integrity is unparalleled. She has consistently shown a commitment to honesty, transparency, and ethical decision-making. Sarah's actions have always aligned with her words, and she has proven to be a trustworthy and reliable leader.

Sarah's intelligence is undeniable. As the Minister of Health, she displayed a deep understanding of complex policy issues and was able to navigate through them with clarity and precision.

One of Sarah's most impressive qualities is her boldness. She is not afraid to take a stand on important issues and fight for what she believes in. Sarah has shown a willingness to challenge the status quo and push for progressive policies that benefit all Albertans.

I had the privilege of working closely with Sarah when I was the MLA for Calgary-Glenmore, and I can personally attest to her exceptional qualities and leadership abilities. Sarah's mentorship, support, and dedication to public service have been truly inspiring. Her guidance and willingness to share her knowledge have had a profound impact on my growth as a leader.

Kim Schreiner

Alberta NDP MLA Red Deer-North 2015-2019, AUPE Vice Chair Local 047

Sarah’s work ethic is impeccable. As Minister of Health and Deputy Premier her office was always open, not only for her colleagues but for all Albertans.

In my constituency alone, Sarah gave Red Deerians safety on the highway with a new interchange, and a badly needed new courthouse, and new schools.

When Sarah put a ‘future school’ sign up, she fulfilled the promise. Not only did she expand schools in Red Deer, where students were taught in ‘hallway classrooms’ but she also gave us brand new schools like St. Joseph’s High School.

Sarah got the ball rolling for our much needed hospital expansion, which the UCP has so badly fumbled since then.

Sarah showed up for us in Red Deer and I know she will show up for Albertans in every part of our province.

I’m thrilled to endorse Sarah Hoffman for leader. I will put her at the top of my ballot and I encourage other members to do the same.

Michael Janz

Michael Janz, former trustee and Chair of the Edmonton Public School Board, housing and climate advocate

Sarah is my choice for Leader of the Alberta NDP. We worked together for many years and I can tell you she is super smart, incredibly hard-working, and cares deeply about people. She keeps winning elections because she’s true to herself and true to her values. Edmonton is a better place because she was Chair of the Edmonton School Board, and Alberta is a better place because she was Minister of Health. She will be an excellent Premier!

Heather MacKenzie

Climate Activist, Former School Board Trustee & 2X Former Federal NDP Candidate

I'm proud to endorse my MLA, Sarah Hoffman as the next leader of Alberta's NDP. Sarah is committed to bold and ambitious climate action. As we all know, the most important aspect of climate action is the follow through. Having worked alongside Sarah as a Trustee on the Edmonton Public School Board, I know and trust that when Sarah makes a commitment, she follows through.

Priya Usman

University of Alberta student, Campus St. Jean

Dès que j’avais jeune, j’étais entourée par des femmes fortes et inspirantes; ma tante Sarah parmi eux. Elle m’a enseigné le courage de faire ce qui est bien et de ne jamais arrêter, même quand les conditions sont difficiles.

En tant que jeune personne, je me soucie de l’avenir. Pourtant, je comprends qu’il faut avoir une planète saine afin que je puisse garder espoir pour mon futur. Pour qu’on ait la chance d’aller se promener avec nos amis sans crainte de respirer l’air toxique ou de se faire tort dans les températures extrêmes, il est nécessaire que les Albertains élisent quelqu’un qui n’ait pas peur de lutter contre ces problématiques.

Sarah Hoffman connaît l’importance de protéger notre planète et nos futurs. Elle ne se vacillera pas, peu importe les défis. Le temps est arrivé pour élire quelqu’un avec le courage d’agir dans l’intérêt du futur de la province. Le temps est arrivé d’élire Sarah Hoffman en tant que chef de la partie néo-démocrate de l’Alberta et comme prochaine première ministre de l’Alberta

Elizabeth Strange

Co-chair, Women’s Caucus; 2019 federal candidate Medicine Hat-Cardston-Warner; former Cypress-Medicine Hat constituency president; former NDYA co-chair and rural representative

I whole-heartedly endorse Sarah Hoffman for Leader of the Alberta NDP - and for Premier! Sarah leads with compassion and authenticity at the core of everything she does. Sarah has been a steadfast supporter of Women’s Caucus, and of party members who come from outside of major cities. She always shows up, ready to work and planning to win. Her determination helped us secure exceptional female representation in our 2023 candidates, including in the rural ridings.

As a former federal NDP candidate, I also appreciate her commitment to building our movement across Canada.

Sarah has always been true to our NDP values as a school trustee, board chair, MLA, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. I’m very proud of the advances in women’s health that we made between 2015 and 2019 and I know we will achieve so much more when she is Premier.

Rodel Paguirgan

Rodel Paguirigan, Executive Director of Small Business Association in Alberta, Member At Large of Alberta NDP Constituency of Calgary East & Calgary Cross, Former Member At Large of Alberta NDP Race Equity Caucus

I wholeheartedly endorse Sarah Hoffman for her unwavering dedication to connecting with diverse communities and championing equity and equality in Alberta. Sarah's tireless efforts to support people of color in the small business community and advocate for their rights are commendable. Her commitment to connecting with the people of Calgary and ensuring their well-being is unmatched. Sarah embodies the qualities of a good leader, demonstrating empathy, integrity, and a strong work ethic. She listens to the concerns of her constituents and takes action to address them. Sarah's leadership is an inspiration, and I am proud to support her in her endeavors.

Erica Bullwinkle

Campaign Manager, former President of the Alberta NDP

Sarah Hoffman has done so much to contribute to the growth of the Alberta NDP. I've seen how well she connects with voters on the doorstep. I've witnessed her phenomenal leadership at the Edmonton Public School Board and as Minister of Health. Sarah has the ideas, talent and commitment to lead our Party to new heights. I am proud to be on her team.

Janet Laddish

Janet Laddish, Edmonton-Decore constituency president, retired educator and principal, teacher activist

I have known Sarah since she was elected as a school trustee representing a new voice for public education.

I was lucky enough to serve as a city school principal during Sarah’s term as Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. Our children, families, staff and communities were better off during this time. We had services such as breakfasts for our children, help for diverse families within the community addressing health, real support for childcare and social needs.

Sarah was there for us – community meetings, schools, always listening and asking challenging questions. The Alberta NDP needs Sarah’s change-making, her determination to lead an energetic party, and her proven experience in the legislature! I am confident fellow New Democrats will see this too. I’m voting for Sarah Hoffman to be the new leader of Alberta’s NDP.

Bob Cocking

Bob Cocking, retired teacher and principal, President of ATA Local 38 Calgary Public Teachers 2018-2022

Sarah Hoffman is a champion for teachers, students, and families in Calgary and across Alberta. As Deputy Premier she helped build and modernize many schools, and as critic for Education she spoke up for our members during the most difficult period ever experienced in our profession.

I know that teaching is a tradition in Sarah’s family, and she takes the value of public education very personally. I endorse Sarah Hoffman to be Leader of the Alberta NDP and our next Premier. I have no doubt that she will hire more teachers and EAs, modernize our curriculum, and build desperately needed schools in Calgary and across the province.

Lee-Ann Kalen

CUPE National Representative, former general vice-president for the West for CUPE National, former general vice-president for CUPE Alberta, former president of CUPE Local 1099

I am thrilled to endorse Sarah Hoffman. She was a fantastic Health Minister and Education Critic. She knows that we need more educational assistants and they need to be better paid. CUPE members’ working conditions are kids’ learning conditions!

When support staff were cruelly laid off during the height of the COVID pandemic, Sarah was an ally and fought for students, staff and families. Everyone who cares about public education should get themselves a membership and vote for her!

We deserve a Sarah Hoffman government!

Joyce Baker

northeast area vice-president CUPE Alberta, Educational Assistant, grandma in Minburn

I fully support Sarah Hoffman for the position of leader of the Alberta NDP. Sarah has been nothing but available, helpful, and willing to solve problems on a moment’s notice.

Our next premier must be approachable and honest and do what they say.

Sarah is all of these things.

Sarah will be at the top of my ballot and I encourage other members to do the same.

Edwin Chavez

Vice-President, Alberta NDP Calgary - East EDA

I support Sarah because I believe strongly in New Democrat values. I see those values shine brightly in Sarah, so I am helping her to become our next leader and Premier. Being a Filipino-Canadian in Alberta, I thank Sarah for her deep connection with the Filipino community like pushing for the Philippine Heritage Month in the province, leading us to become the first in Canada with one. We need a Premier who will take meaningful action on climate change. We need a Premier who believes in affordable housing for all, and one who will fix our broken healthcare system. I believe the right person for the job is Sarah, and I hope that you will join me in supporting her!

Mandy Melnyk

Farmer, author, Alberta NDP 2012 candidate for Athabasca-Sturgeon-Redwater, founding member of Rural Caucus

Sarah grew up in rural Alberta and understands who we are and what it takes to keep our small communities vibrant. Sarah understands the countryside.

Sarah is the epitome of a true public servant, devoting her career to making Alberta an even better place to live. She improved our education system during her time as Board Chair for EPSB and drastically improved our healthcare system during her time as Minister of Health. She oversaw investments that literally saved lives in Alberta and I trust her to do this again as our next Premier. She has tremendous leadership skills and has what it takes to form Alberta’s next NDP government

Chad Ohman

Chad Ohman, Technical Producer and Organizer with Protect our Province Alberta, Edmonton-Glenora EDA Secretary, community advocate, and healthcare IT professional

I am so proud to endorse Sarah Hoffman as the next leader of the Alberta NDP and Premier of Alberta.

When she approached me before Christmas about her intent to run over coffee, I was so excited to offer my support in any way I could. Not only is she a caring neighbour, her track record as a public school trustee and Health Minister proves she has the knowledge and experience to represent all Albertans as Premier.

As a healthcare IT professional, I see and feel the incredible transformation her investment into Connect Care was during her time as Health Minister, allowing patients to access and understand their care with never-before-seen detail. Sarah's investment has drawn the interest of other health authorities in Canada and abroad by enabling healthcare professionals to deliver care with fewer barriers.

Now more than ever, Alberta needs a fierce, courageous, and - most importantly - genuine leader. I know Sarah can and will deliver for all Albertans.

Kathy Williams

Sarah is true to our NDP values. She is the right person to fix our healthcare system. She demonstrated her ability to improve healthcare in Alberta when she served as Health Minister and Deputy Premier. She promises to tackle the housing crisis that so many Albertans suffer from. She will also take meaningful action on climate change to ensure the well-being of future Albertans. This is the type of leader Alberta's NDP needs, and it is why I will be supporting Sarah!

Linda Lyndsay

Edmonton-Decore constituency vice-president

My decision to support Sarah Hoffman in the leadership race is an easy one. Sarah's extensive leadership roles and multiple portfolios, including Deputy Premier, have prepared her well to be Alberta's next leader. Sarah's integrity, values and action/accomplishments give me the confidence that she will support Albertans toward improved healthcare, education and address climate issues; all being top of mind for so many folks. Her experience, genuine love for this province, both rural and urban and her ability to connect with people will make her the leader I want and we need.

Laura Penner

Secretary for Edmonton-City Centre, former Gender and Sexual Diversity Caucus Co-chair, Secretary for Council of Electoral District Associations, community volunteer, trans coverage advocate

Sarah is a strong ally for trans Albertans and the broader 2SLGBTQ+ community. She lived her values as Chair of the Edmonton Public School Board, as Deputy Premier, and as Minister of Health. I appreciate Sarah for showing up for community events, and for her loud opposition to the hateful anti-trans policies of Danielle Smith.

I know that we have a fighter, a hard worker, and an unabashed New Democrat in Sarah. I’m going to vote for Sarah Hoffman to be our next leader and our next premier.

Donna Staszenski

longtime volunteer, Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood

As a worker and volunteer on many election campaigns, I so appreciate Sarah’s dedication and hard work. During the last election, I saw a personal side of Sarah that confirmed for me why I support her. On the day after the election, Sarah was one of the first people into the office with a stack of signs she collected. She continued to work throughout the day collecting signs. At the end of the day, Sarah was in the office supporting volunteers, helping to clear the campaign office and vacuuming. Though we were all sad after the loss of the NDP, she offered positive ways to move forward. These small actions are exemplary of Sarah as a person. Not only is she a hard worker, she really cares about people and is attentive to and caring of the work they do. As a retired teacher and advocate for early childhood education, I have witnessed her deep commitment to public education and to Alberta's children. She attended events and meetings to hear about concerns and issues regarding early learning and child care and offered her support and suggestions for advocacy. Her leadership as the Minister of Health and Deputy Premier prove that she is ready to take on the leadership of the party and the province. Her strong values and beliefs as a New Democrat make her my choice as leader of the Alberta NDP.

Jocelyn Johnson

labour activist, federal NDP 2021 candidate for Medicine Hat-Cardston-Warner, former provincial and federal constituency assistant, former president Edmonton-West Henday EDA, longtime volunteer

I trust Sarah.

Sarah’s convictions shine through in every interaction. Her values are clear and you know with her that what you see is what you get.

She is fair, transparent, and reliable in her word.

The way to build a progressive political movement is by connecting with people genuinely, respecting who they are, and finding a way to support them to pursue their goals and utilize their strengths. I’ve never met someone who does this better than Sarah. It’s always been about working-class people getting a fair deal and always will be — as long as we have champions like Sarah leading our party. Sarah understands the challenges of governing and she knows how to get things done. I know she will work just as hard, if not twice as hard, as I will expect of her when she becomes the leader of the ANDP and then the premier of a very capable, compassionate NDP government in Alberta.

Sonia Varela

longtime NDP member and volunteer

As soon as I learned Sarah was running for the leadership I enthusiastically threw my support behind her because she believes in the principles and values of our party. She has worked tenaciously year after year to make it stronger by talking to people on their doorsteps, listening to their concerns and offering not just "hope" but better, viable alternatives through important policies that improve our health care, education and, most recently, housing and climate change. If we are electing a leader of theAlberta NDP, let's choose someone who truly embodies the principles we hold most dear and the progress for which we have fought so hard; let's choose Sarah!

Sonia Quon

Vice President, Alberta NDP Calgary - North EDA, Alberta NDP member and volunteer, concerned citizen and parent.

I am wholeheartedly endorsing Sarah Hoffman in her candidacy for leader of the NDP. With her wealth of experience, unwavering dedication, and a proven track record of accomplishments, Sarah doesn't just talk the talk – she walks the walk - traversing every corner of our province.

Sarah embodies the progressive democratic values of the NDP, believing fervently in achieving social and economic justice while safeguarding our environment for the benefit of all Albertans and future generations. Her core focus on Health, Climate, and Housing addresses pressing needs that resonate deeply with constituents of all political stripes, as evidenced by my own interactions canvassing in the last election and beyond.

I wholeheartedly endorse Sarah Hoffman as the leader of the NDP and as our next Premier. She embodies the dedication, compassion, and leadership that our communities deserve, and her vision is indispensable for the NDP and the province as a whole.

Tonya Malo

2023 campaign manager for Edmonton-Whitemud and Edmonton-Rutherford, Edmonton-Glenora vice-president, former ministerial assistant, former president of AUPE Local 54

I have worked with Sarah for many years, and she is the hardest-working person I’ve ever met. She’s intelligent, compassionate, and always authentically herself.

As Minister of Health, Sarah’s strong leadership brought stability to our healthcare after years of chaos under the Conservatives. Sarah stopped the privatization of our lab services and began the process of building a public system. Leading a $20-billion organization with more than 100,000 employees is a complex task which Sarah took on with skill and sensitivity.

As Critic for Education, Sarah spoke up for students, staff and families during the most difficult times we’ve ever seen in our school system.

Sarah wins elections because she always shows up and does the work, even when no-one is looking. She’s a relentless door knocker, fundraiser, candidate recruiter, and party builder.

I can’t wait to vote for my friend Sarah Hoffman to be the next Leader of the Alberta NDP and the next Premier of Alberta!

Katy Campbell

Sherwood Park Campaign Manager 2023, longtime Alberta NDP volunteer

Sarah has always impressed me as someone who is incredibly hard working, tenacious and smart. Sarah has been integral to our growth as a party over the last few years, doing the important and often unrecognized work that party building requires – knocking on doors across the province, fundraising at AGMs, recruiting excellent candidates to run and mentoring them on how to be successful.

As campaign manager for the Sherwood Park region during the last election, I always looked forward to the days that Sarah was coming out to our campaign. I knew that she would go wherever we needed her to go, no questions asked, that she would help and uplift any volunteers going out with her and that she would put in 100% and be the last canvassing team back to the office that night. She was never there just for a photo op, she was there to work alongside our members doing the important work that it takes to win elections.

Sarah is leadership personified. I know that as leader of the Alberta NDP she will be with our party through thick and thin, ready to continue doing the work to build on the already very strong foundation that we’ve built together as a team, ready to take on the UCP and win in 2027!

Tracey Giroux

Community Outreach Coordinator for Strathcona-Sherwood Park EDA, volunteer, community organizer, advocate for vulnerable populations

From the moment I met Sarah door-knocking in the last election and witnessed her unwavering commitment to putting others first, I was compelled to stand and offer my support to Sarah in the leadership race.

I have seen first-hand how she exemplifies the values of a good leader as an integral part of her character. She embodies integrity, empathy, accountability, and all the other values essential for effective leadership in her actions, decisions and interactions. She consistently demonstrates her genuine commitment to serving all Albertans whether it's in rural communities, hamlets, or mid size cities. She is dedicated to ensuring that every voice is heard.

I am honoured to lend my endorsement to Sarah Hoffman to be next leader of the Alberta NDP. Beyond her qualifications and dedication, I am proud to call her my friend. This endorsement reflects not only my belief in her abilities as a leader but also the genuine admiration and respect I have for her as a person. I am confident that she will serve with excellence, making a profound impact for all Albertans.

Chantelle Painter

Treasurer, Alberta NDP Spruce Grove - Stony Plain EDA

I have known Sarah since our university days and voted for her for the first time when she ran for Student’s Union. I have voted for her many times since as I am always impressed by her work and look forward to voting for her to become the next leader of the Alberta NDP and Premier of Alberta. Sarah has done so much good for our province by fighting for students at the Students Union and then again as school board trustee at EPSB. She has been fighting for all Albertans since becoming MLA in 2015 and I know she will keep up the great work as our next Premier!

Miriam Rycroft

2023 Campaign Manager for Edmonton-Strathcona, Edmonton-Goldbar & Edmonton - Riverview, Edmonton - Glenora constituency president, former NDP staff

Sarah is selfless, empathic and incredibly hardworking. She has devoted her entire career to making our province a better place and I cannot wait to see what she does as leader. She improved the Edmonton public school system during her time as Board Chair with the Edmonton Public School Board by advocating for more schools and ensuring schools were a safe space for all students. As Minister of Health and Deputy Premier, she worked hard to make life better for all Albertans by building new hospitals and continuing care centres and improving support for women’s health. Sarah is a natural leader who fights for what is right, and that is why I am supporting her in this leadership race, and I hope you will too!