Alberta Speaker Nathan Cooper Resigns to Become US Envoy

Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta since 2019, announced his resignation effective May 12 to become Alberta's official representative to the United States. Premier Danielle Smith praised Cooper as the right choice to maintain and build Alberta's relationship with U.S. officials, following the work of former envoy James Rajotte. Cooper described this new role as a vital opportunity to strengthen ties amid global uncertainty and expressed excitement about transitioning from his non-partisan role as Speaker to a more active partisan presence in his final days as MLA. He will continue to serve as the MLA for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills until he assumes his diplomatic post in Washington, D.C., in June. Cooper's departure marks a significant shift in Alberta’s political and diplomatic engagement with the U.S., highlighting the importance of cross-border relationships for the province. His resignation initiates a selection process for a new Speaker in the Alberta legislature.