Scott Sinclair, the MLA for Lesser Slave Lake, returned to the United Conservative Party (UCP) caucus on May 7, 2026 [3].
Sinclair's reinstatement follows a period of political isolation that began when he was expelled from the party for threatening to vote against the budget. His return signals a reconciliation between the MLA and the party leadership, stabilizing the UCP's numbers in the Alberta Legislative Assembly.
Sinclair was removed from the caucus in March 2025 [2]. The expulsion occurred after he threatened to oppose the party's budget, though some reports indicate he was removed for speaking out against the financial plan [1, 2]. He spent approximately 14 months as an independent member before the party agreed to readmit him [1].
The return was predicated on a public apology from the MLA. Sinclair said, "I am sorry for my actions and I am grateful to be welcomed back to the caucus."
Premier Danielle Smith welcomed the move. Smith said, "We welcome Scott back to the caucus after he has taken responsibility for his conduct."
A UCP spokesperson said the party viewed the apology as sincere and believed Sinclair could contribute positively to the party moving forward.
Sinclair had served as an independent representative for the Lesser Slave Lake riding since his departure in 2025. The party's decision to accept his apology marks the end of a year-long rift within the governing caucus.
“"I am sorry for my actions and I am grateful to be welcomed back to the caucus."”
The readmission of Scott Sinclair demonstrates the UCP's willingness to prioritize caucus unity and numerical strength over strict disciplinary precedents. By requiring an 'abject apology' before reinstatement, the party leadership maintains its authority over budget discipline while successfully reintegrating a dissenting member before the next electoral cycle.
