What similarities and differences exist between these two women? Both are in their 50s, lead active lifestyles, love dogs, and are passionate about politics. Beyond these traits, Rachel Notley and Danielle Smith diverge significantly, though their paths occasionally intersect. Learn more about Alberta’s political battle of the queens on CalgaryYes.
What Do We Know About Them?
Danielle Smith was born in Calgary as the second of five children. She has spoken about how her parents were influenced by a Ukrainian family who lived through the Soviet Union era. Her political career began as a trustee on the Calgary Board of Education, though it didn’t go smoothly.
Rachel Notley, from Edmonton, considers her hometown progressive. She is the eldest child in her family and grew up with two brothers.
Both candidates inherited the political ideologies of their families and their respective parties. Numerous publications note that Notley carries the legacy of the United Farmers of Alberta, while Smith is linked to the Social Credit movement.
Comparisons
Here are some notable characteristics worth highlighting:
- Personality: Rachel Notley is described as cheerful and positive, someone who loves to laugh. Danielle Smith is said to be the same person in private as she is in public, earning her a reputation for authenticity.
- Social Circles: Smith has a Sunday dinner tradition with friends. Both women maintain close-knit social circles and share similar personality traits.
- Political Beginnings: Both entered politics early. Notley, now 59, grew up with a long-standing New Democrat MLA father and marched in protests with her mother after meeting Ed Broadbent. Smith, now 52, had her first political debate about communism with her father while in the eighth grade.
- Public Speaking: Both struggled with public speaking in their youth. Notley recalls sweating nervously during her first speeches in her 20s. Smith improved her skills by joining Toastmasters, which helped refine her communication abilities.
- Habits and Interests: Notley quit smoking and, like Smith, enjoys running. Both have pet dogs. Notley prefers Alberta craft beer, while Smith favours Pinot Grigio or a gin martini paired with a fine meal.
Surviving Politics
One common trait between these women is resilience and determination, as they have literally “survived politics.” For instance, Danielle Smith returned to political life after a humiliating defeat in 2015, while Notley sacrificed positions in 2019 to remain her party’s leader.
Despite their similarities, the two stand on opposite ends of the political spectrum. Smith leads the United Conservative Party, rooted firmly in libertarian ideals. In contrast, Notley leads the NDP, adhering to a left-centrist philosophy.
Thus, the term “battle of the queens” aptly describes May 29, 2023, when these strong women with contrasting visions for Alberta’s future will meet on the political stage.
Alberta and Women in Leadership
Alberta has seen three female premiers in its history: Alison Redford, Rachel Notley, and Danielle Smith. In comparison, Ontario has had only one woman hold the role—Kathleen Wynne—and Quebec has seen the same with Pauline Marois.
An Alberta senator and former local columnist recalled that Alberta was the first province to elect women to its legislative assembly. This established a tradition of strong female leadership in Alberta politics.
Interestingly, the 2023 election isn’t the first political battle between Notley and Smith. Their rivalry dates back to 2012. Local media and public commentary frame this event as follows:
“This is a battle between equals.”