Newly independent MLA Scott Sinclair disappointed, but not ruling out return to UCP [Video]

A rural United Conservative Party backbencher kicked out of caucus for threatening to vote against the Alberta government’s budget says he’s disappointed but not ruling out a return to the party.

MLA Scott Sinclair, who now sits as an Independent legislature member for Lesser Slave Lake, said last week he couldn’t support the proposed budget. He said he felt it needlessly gives more to Edmonton and Calgary than rural communities like his while also forecasting significant deficits.

Sinclair said Monday he was devastated the UCP caucus expelled him, as he thought there was still time for conversations.

“I was given basically an ultimatum and a deadline (to support the budget),” Sinclair said. “I was told that (Premier Danielle Smith) would remove me herself, and then I think on Friday that changed and I was voted out by my peers.”

Chief government whip Shane Getson said Friday that Sinclair has every right to vote against the …