Mike Derry, owner of a human resources and business consultancy, won the United Conservative Party nomination for Calgary-Shaw on June 24, 2026, defeating Ward 13 Coun. Dan McLean in a closely contested race. The vote was held among UCP members at Cardel Rec South in Shawnessy.
Derry's Victory and Reaction
“Last night was truly unforgettable,” Derry wrote on social media after securing the nomination, calling the campaign a “hard fought battle.” He previously held corporate roles in the oil and gas sector with Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. before founding LegendDERRY Talent in 2022. Derry is married with two sons.
His priorities include affordability, education, health care, and greater transparency in government, according to his campaign bio. “He believes in open, honest communication — even when conversations are challenging,” the bio states. “He is running to continue giving back to the community that has provided so many opportunities for his family and his business.”
McLean's Statement
McLean, who has served as Ward 13 councillor since 2021, announced his nomination bid in early May. After the loss, he wrote: “Thanks for all the tremendous support I heard from people at doors in this nominations contest and I understand why many don’t want to lose me at city hall fighting for conservative policies and common sense. I will continue to do that.”
Premier Smith's Congratulations
Premier Danielle Smith congratulated Derry in person after the win and again on social media. “Congratulations to Mike Derry on securing the UCP nomination for Calgary Shaw tonight. It was great to stop by and congratulate him in person after a very close race,” she wrote. Smith also thanked McLean, noting, “Dan has been a strong advocate for Calgary and I know he will continue making a positive difference for our city and our province.”
Byelection Ahead
A byelection will be held for the riding, formerly held by ex-UCP cabinet minister Rebecca Schulz, who announced on Dec. 31, 2025, that she would step down in May 2026. The Alberta NDP has not yet named a candidate for the riding, which covers Calgary’s southern tip including Shawnessy, Somerset, Silverado, and Legacy.
