BANFF – The mayor of a popular Alberta mountain town has been appointed senator.
Banff’s Karen Sorenson will leave her post as mayor to represent Alberta in the senate after being chosen by the governor general.
“I am humbled and incredibly honored to be appointed to the Canadian Senate. After 17 years of being privileged to serve the people of Banff, I am exhilarated to have this amazing opportunity in service to Canada,” Sorensen said in a release.
Here's the federal bio for Alberta's newest senator, Karen Sorensen. #yeg #yyc #ableg #cdnpoli pic.twitter.com/hzqDaKJzmw
— Courtney Theriault (@cspotweet) July 29, 2021
“It is a tremendous responsibility to be asked to represent the Province of Alberta at the federal level and I look forward to working hard to give voice to the diversity of groups that make up our nation.”
Sorensen served as a councillor for six years and has spent the past 11 years as Banff’s mayor. She announced last year that she wouldn’t be seeking another term in the mayors chair.
“While I never intended to leave the role of mayor before this term was complete, I am confident in the abilities of our very thoughtful and diverse council, and I am comforted knowing a municipal election is only a few months away,” she said.
“And while I will be spending part of my time in Ottawa, Banff has and will always have my heart.”
Three senators for Quebec and one for Saskatchewan were also announced Thursday, leaving one last senate vacancy in Alberta.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the new senators were appointed by an independent board and chosen through a merit-based process.
