The United Conservative Party (UCP) of Alberta has filed a lawsuit against two former caucus members, claiming they conspired to damage the party’s reputation by working on behalf of the rival Alberta Party and attempting to adopt the defunct Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta (PC) name. The UCP alleges that the ex-MLAs conspired to mislead voters and redirect conservative donations and identity toward this new rebranded entity.
In response, the former members argue that they are simply exercising their political rights and that their actions do not amount to wrongdoing. They contend that they are advancing an independent conservative alternative and that the legal threat from their former party is an attempt to suppress competition and free political expression. The case raises clear questions about the ownership of political brand and legacy, especially when parties evolve or merge.
For the UCP, the lawsuit serves as both a defensive move to protect its name and a signal to current and former affiliates about loyalty and party discipline. It also introduces uncertainty for conservative voters in Alberta who may be considering whether to support the UCP or a revived PC-style alternative. The legal process may influence future alignments and re-brandings within the provincial political right.
