UCP Leader Danielle Smith is chastising Jennifer Johnson, her candidate for Lacombe-Ponoka.

Johnson recently made several disparaging comments related to transgender students as well as teachers.

Her remarks were widely condemned from both sides of the political spectrum.

Smith says Elected officials have a responsibility to represent all communities.

“Although there are certainly legitimate policy discussions to be had on youth transgender issues, the language used by Ms. Johnson regarding children identifying as transgender is simply unacceptable and does not reflect the values of our party or province,” says Smith.

Smith says she informed Ms. Johnson that should she win a seat as the UCP candidate for Lacombe-Ponoka, she will not sit as a member of the United Conservative caucus in the Legislature.

“I encourage all candidates from all parties not to use this or any other election to provoke distrust, anxiety and hate between people for political purposes. It is time to move forward.”