(Edmonton, AB) February 21, 2026: Naheed Nenshi’s deputy leader Rakhi Pancholi held a PG-13 press conference about budget deficits on Friday – but what she failed to mention was the Alberta NDP spent all four years of their government in the red after inheriting a $1 billion surplus from Jim Prentice.
Although it’s clear the amnesia has set in, it was former NDP Finance Minister Joe Ceci who racked up nearly $90 billion in debt between 2015 and 2019.
Meanwhile, United Conservatives have paid down $15 billion in debt and invested $32 billion into the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund, ensuring our province can weather any economic storm.
“The Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund is good conservative economic and fiscal policy. It means we’re ready no matter what comes our way – and every Albertan is better for it,” said Chief Government Whip Justin Wright. “That’s more than we can say about Nenshi’s NDP. Just like the Notley NDP, they have no plan, there’s no forward thinking, and hardworking Albertans will be left to hold the bag.”
“Make no mistake – Joe Ceci was the worst finance minister this province has ever seen, and the proof is in the balance sheets,” added Wright. “Alberta can’t afford having Nenshi or Ceci anywhere near this province’s coffers.”
While the NDP are hoping Albertans will forget about their years of financial mismanagement, United Conservatives are focused on what matters most – ensuring Alberta is prepared for today and generations to come.
