Key Influencer – Blake Desjarlais - Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Edmonton

Source: X.com

Blake Desjarlais was hired as Chief of Staff to Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack in April 2026, representing one of the more overtly partisan staffing decisions in recent municipal leadership. A former New Democratic Party Member of Parliament for Edmonton-Griesbach, Desjarlais brings recent partisan experience directly into a senior role within the Mayor’s Office.

Desjarlais served as MP from 2021 to 2025 and held a leadership role as Deputy Caucus Chair. During his time in Parliament, he was an active voice on issues related to Indigenous representation, Palestine, and property tax payments from oil and gas companies to municipalities.

Prior to entering municipal politics, Desjarlais held senior positions with the Métis Settlements General Council. Following his defeat in the 2025 federal election, he remained active in progressive and Indigenous political circles. In late 2025, Desjarlais launched an unsuccessful campaign for the presidency of the organization, advocating for expanded grassroots engagement, housing, healthcare, and economic development initiatives within Métis communities. The election was ultimately won by incumbent President Dave Lamouche, who was re-elected in January 2026.

His transition into municipal politics is notable. Chiefs of staff in mayoral offices are typically drawn politically experienced operatives in the private sector, rather than former elected officials. His hiring suggests an alignment with progressive policy priorities, particularly as Mayor Knack navigates relationships with the UCP government, housing, affordability, and public safety.