2017 was an exceptionally exciting year in Alberta provincial politics; not only were two political parties buried (one without so much as a brief eulogy) but Albertans were treated to FIVE leadership races. Launched in October of 2016 but maintaining air space in the first quarter of 2017 was the PC Leadership race, easily taken by Kenney and his merry band of Wildrose supporters on March 18. Next in line came the Alberta Liberal Party race which saw their fears of an acclaimed leader evaporate when Nolan Crouse, the only declared candidate, decided not to run.
By April, David Khan and Kerry Cundal signed up and shook the Liberal base with a little controversy to deliver more excitement than the party had seen in years. The Wildrose/UCP leadership contest began immediately after the unity vote on July 22 and managed to attract enough contestants with very, very deep pockets to start the party off with almost a half-million dollar pot. The Green Party of Alberta snuck in their own leadership race and announced Romy Tittel as their new leader in November a mere week before Alberta Party Leader Greg Clark surprised members and non with his resignation which triggered the fifth, and final, leadership race of 2017.
In March of 2017, delegates from around the province overwhelmingly chose to euthanize the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta by electing Jason Kenney. The party that was once most recognizably the party of the fiscally and socially responsible Peter Lougheed has since been recreated in the image of one of their more controversial leaders, Ralph Klein. Klein led the province from severe austerity to tax decreases and showering citizens with rebate checks affectionately, or offensively, known as "Ralph bucks". He also paid off a sizable portion of the provincial debt, though not all, so it would seem as if some of Ralph's worshippers are just happy about the pretty sign.
The Alberta Liberal Party race revealed, yet again, a push to "unite the centre". Former leader Dr. David Swann had reached out to the Alberta Party in 2010 to form a united front against the left and right wings but was unsuccessful. Laurie Blakeman, a Liberal MLA in Edmonton Centre, proposed the idea in 2015 and was also unsuccessful. As the outcome of the 2017 leadership race would suggest, almost half of the Liberal membership believe there should be a united movement for the moderate conservatives in Alberta. And since we're talking about moderate conservatives, Brian Jean should have had their votes in the Wildrose/UCP.
There were a lot of people who believed Brian Jean had a real chance against Jason Kenney in the UCP Leadership race. Brian Jean went from being a relatively unknown backbench MP for the Conservative Party of Canada to a household name in Alberta politics. Brian Jean was the backbone of the moderate-conservatives in the Wildrose party. Former PCs who were tired of the entitlement, and previously afraid of the Wildrose social conservatives, found in Brian Jean someone they could trust. Brian Jean stood steadfastedly against Kenney's social conservative base; at first. In a strategically daft move, Brian Jean tried to entice Kenney's more right wing voter base which likely alienated his support.
Jason Kenney won the UCP leadership with slightly more than 60% of over 60,000 votes. Brian Jean then declined a Party role and has hardly been seen in the legislature since which has caused rumblings of speculation that he will resign early in 2018. Rounding out the year in leadership races was the Alberta Party whose race had hardly begun by the end of December with only one declared candidate, Kara Levis. A little birdy told me today that another is about to declare shortly so we will have much to talk about by the end of the week.
Happy New Year to all you political observers; may you have fortitude, inspiration and wit to stay politically engaged throughout another year :)
Showing posts with label Wildrose. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wildrose. Show all posts
Monday, 1 January 2018
Wednesday, 6 September 2017
Fundraising, Leadership Races and Jobs
Back in 2015 when the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta launched their leadership race, the entry fee was $50,000. Last week, two United Conservative Party leadership hopefuls, Brian Jean and Jason Kenney, sent out an email requesting donations to raise $75,000 for the leadership entry fee which had yet to be determined. Friday it was announced that each candidate will only have to come up with $95,000 to run for leader and 21%, or $20,000, is refundable if the candidates operate within the rules.
Jason Kenney raised a reported $1.45 million dollars for his bid to become leader of the Progressive Conservative Association and spent $1.5 million to secure the 1,113 votes which saw him elected as leader. The PC party purportedly had a membership of around 40,000 (that's 2.7%). A campaign spokesman also claimed an additional $500,000 was raised through a separate entity which would bring the total to just under $2 million dollars. That number, however, is less than the same spokesman claimed was raised previously. And all during one of the worst recessions Alberta has ever seen. We're getting used to the double-speak, though.
The $300,000 UCP will earn from the four candidates, in addition to the recent release of 7 staff members, should alleviate the caucus budget woes. For all Brian Jean's assurances that "there is no deficit", being $322,000 over budget suggests otherwise. It was an easy mark for Kenney to pounce on.
Yes, it would be hypocritical for Jean to claim he could balance a provincial budget without balancing a caucus budget. The thing to remember is that as of July 22, 2017, the caucus budget changed. A select few have related the current budgetary issues to the reduction in caucus funds resulting from the party merger. It is said the budget allotted to Wildrose was reduced by $400,000 as a result; you do the math.
Still, UCP considered asking caucus to use their personal MLA allowances to help reduce the deficit; but that's like raising taxes on citizens to cover spending for gosh sake's. In the end, the UCP found a new revenue stream in the leadership race and cut expenses. While Jason Kenney would like to blame MLA Brian Jean, it makes as much sense to blame MLA Dave Rodney or MLA Drew Barnes because they aren't leading the UCP either.
Drew Barnes, UCP/Wildrose MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat tweeted "This is more than just caucus deficit. It is jobs, kid's hockey fees, livelihoods. We can do better". While the UCP promise to reduce government workers (to much fanfare from their supporters) some appear to understand what happens when people lose their jobs. Contrary to popular Wildrose/UCP misconception, individuals working for government are also people who need food, shelter, their job.. and probably aren't cannibals.
Granted, Kenney and friends are trying their best to throw Brian Jean under the bus for having hired people in the first place but this is a different caucus, with a different budget, than what existed before.
One recently fired employee, Cole Kander, detailed his view of the unfairness in a weird "spurned lover"-like post. Between his fawning over Brian Jean ("a leader I thought walked on water") and his probable genuine sadness at losing his job ("It was everything I wanted, desired and hoped to do with my life."), Kander announced his intention to run for the candidate nomination for the UCP in 2019. Considering he isn't likely to be the most trusted potential employee in political circles after that post, I guess it's a logical step.
What Kander didn't mention is that he was Derek Fildebrandt's legislative assistant. Walk that back a moment. Cole Kander, legislative assistant to Fildebrandt, who stepped down from caucus August 15, 2017, was let go. The UCP, for whom Derek no longer works, but who paid the salary of Kander, let Kander go. Team Kenney may have the money but their game is pretty weak so far.
The $300,000 UCP will earn from the four candidates, in addition to the recent release of 7 staff members, should alleviate the caucus budget woes. For all Brian Jean's assurances that "there is no deficit", being $322,000 over budget suggests otherwise. It was an easy mark for Kenney to pounce on.
Yes, it would be hypocritical for Jean to claim he could balance a provincial budget without balancing a caucus budget. The thing to remember is that as of July 22, 2017, the caucus budget changed. A select few have related the current budgetary issues to the reduction in caucus funds resulting from the party merger. It is said the budget allotted to Wildrose was reduced by $400,000 as a result; you do the math.
Still, UCP considered asking caucus to use their personal MLA allowances to help reduce the deficit; but that's like raising taxes on citizens to cover spending for gosh sake's. In the end, the UCP found a new revenue stream in the leadership race and cut expenses. While Jason Kenney would like to blame MLA Brian Jean, it makes as much sense to blame MLA Dave Rodney or MLA Drew Barnes because they aren't leading the UCP either.
Drew Barnes, UCP/Wildrose MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat tweeted "This is more than just caucus deficit. It is jobs, kid's hockey fees, livelihoods. We can do better". While the UCP promise to reduce government workers (to much fanfare from their supporters) some appear to understand what happens when people lose their jobs. Contrary to popular Wildrose/UCP misconception, individuals working for government are also people who need food, shelter, their job.. and probably aren't cannibals.Granted, Kenney and friends are trying their best to throw Brian Jean under the bus for having hired people in the first place but this is a different caucus, with a different budget, than what existed before.
One recently fired employee, Cole Kander, detailed his view of the unfairness in a weird "spurned lover"-like post. Between his fawning over Brian Jean ("a leader I thought walked on water") and his probable genuine sadness at losing his job ("It was everything I wanted, desired and hoped to do with my life."), Kander announced his intention to run for the candidate nomination for the UCP in 2019. Considering he isn't likely to be the most trusted potential employee in political circles after that post, I guess it's a logical step.
Tuesday, 22 August 2017
The Real Choice
Monday started off better than last week with Brian Jean actually going so far as to make a policy proposal. It's awful but anything that takes attention away from Fildebrandt for a bit is a blessing. While it's likely we haven't heard the last of the expense scandals, at least there's questionable and inappropriate policy to talk about today.
Jean introduced his policy with a standard phrase designed to keep his supporters scared and angry;
The UCP/Wildrose group has had a lot of success with this narrative. Kenney raised alarm about the curriculum review but wouldn't go so far as to say a UCP review would be transparent. Two weeks prior to Jean's media scrum on Monday, Kenney also claimed students were being taught "fads". The two front-runners, let's be honest, will do everything they can to make this about personality. If they have the same talking points, then you only have to vote for the person you like better... or dislike less.
With all the discussion around the certainty that the current government will impose their ideology on students, the Wildrose/UCP are suggesting they can, and will, do the same.
There was also something Jean said that I somewhat agree with;
Jean introduced his policy with a standard phrase designed to keep his supporters scared and angry;
The NDP government is starting us down the wrong path by imposing their ideology and eroding the choices Alberta students have so benefited from (in) the past. They’ve launched their massive curriculum review with no indication who is leading it or where it’s going.
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| Malcolm Mayes, Edmonton Journal, June 2016 |
We would focus on enhancing the curriculum from an Alberta perspective by improving financial, historical and energy literacy. Alberta is the best province in the best country in the world and our students need to be taught exactly that.Would an "Alberta perspective" include the Wildrose/UCP whopper that Alberta makes transfer payments to our eastern provincial neighbours? This is indeed worrisome because although it certainly is a perspective widely found in this province, it's only loosely based on reality. Canadian citizens pay federal taxes and the federal government gives money back to provinces based on need. It's really not a difficult concept unless you're trying to sell a lie.
There was also something Jean said that I somewhat agree with;
We do Alberta’s children no favours by giving out passing grades without them achieving their full potential. We would end the “No Zero” policy. If you don’t do the work, you should get a zero. Students must complete the work and demonstrate a minimum level of achievement to advance to the next grade.I agree with teachers that no one should tell them they can or cannot give a certain mark; they are the professionals. With that being said, the case for a no-zero policy actually makes sense if you consider the reasoning behind its implementation. With children currently attending Alberta's K-12 system, I am of the opinion that a no-zero policy increases responsibility and collaboration between the child, parent and teacher. What is easier? Helping a student complete an assignment or giving them a zero and moving on? The no-zero policy was brought in to enforce exactly what Jean is saying: "Students must complete the work".
Our plan to strengthen Alberta’s education system would ensure parents remain the primary educator of their children by allowing for the choice in education they want their children to receive. Commitment to diversity and choice in Alberta’s education system will ensure success for students."Choice". We should not forget that libertarian policies still want the government to pay for your children's education, they just want to ensure someone can make a profit. Public schools don't make money but a lot of money, taxpayer money, is spent on them. If the libertarian movement could get their hands on the money "given" to education, they would ensure a few people could profit. That's the real choice Brian Jean wants to provide and no, Mr. and Ms. "ordinary", "average" Albertan, he's definitely not talking about you.
Monday, 14 August 2017
Fildebrandt, Past and Present
The United Conservative Party, being less than a month old, is still in its infancy but it has officially been christened by its first bozo eruption. Derek Fildebrandt, MLA for Strathmore - Brooks, was found to have been renting out his taxpayer funded apartment in Edmonton through AirBnB for personal profit. Claiming his actions "never cost the taxpayer anything extra", Fildebrandt released a statement claiming his subletting for personal profit was "not against the rules" and has "always been... shared openly with (his) colleagues". While the latter ensures each and every one of his WRP/UCP mates can be regarded as comfortably complicit in Derek's stewardship of taxpayer dollars, his leave of absence from his role as "co-shadow finance minister" suggests those same colleagues weren't willing to defend him in the face of public disappointment.
Alberta MLAs are eligible to claim up to $23,160 non-taxable dollars each year ($1,930 per month) to cover their accommodation expenses in Edmonton. Upon his arrival in the Legislature in 2015, Alberta Party leader Greg Clark called for a change in the reimbursement process when he discovered he was unable to easily claim less than $1,930 per month. In March of 2016, Clark's recommendations requiring MLAs "to claim actual living expenses" rather than a blanket amount were approved by the Member's Services Committee. This change in accommodation expense rules is what will likely come back to haunt Fildebrandt as Clark has now requested an investigation and review of accommodation expenses claimed by current MLAs.
Fildebrandt staunchly claims he did nothing wrong and he is receiving some public support. Personally profiting from taxpayer funded accommodation "absolutely isn't an issue" said the Strathmore-Brooks Wildrose/UCP constituency association president, Ronda Klemmensen. Had the shoe been on the other foot, most (if not all) people who don't support Fildebrandt feel strongly that he would have thrown everything he had in his meme arsenal at the offending MLA(s). Frankly, this double standard, although not new, is confounding.
Had he used the rental income to decrease the cost to Alberta taxpayers, his actions would have been widely applauded. In fact, it is that type of ingenuity one would have expected of a "fiscal hawk" and "champion of the taxpayers". Back in 2013, Fildebrandt stated expense policies should require actual receipts in order to hold public servants accountable. While campaigning for his seat in 2015 he claimed that it was the responsibility of politicians to first get their "own spending under control". In fact, Derek Fildebrandt the MLA is facing such acute public backlash because of Derek Fildebrant the former Alberta Director of the Canadian Taxpayer's Federation.
Whether you support Fildebrandt now or not, if you have heard anything from him over the past 8 years, you have heard him rail against irresponsible spending by government and elected officials. One gets the impression from Fildebrandt of old that he would be the first person to ensure his own expenses and spending were above board. While one right wing publication suggested what he did was not against the rules, it would appear they are unfamiliar with the change Greg Clark successfully implemented in 2016. "Actual expenses" ensure that Fildebrandt's Air BnB profits should have reduced the amount of accommodation expenses claimed by the MLA.
There is no grey area here. Fildebrandt's apartment was paid for by Alberta taxpayers. Fildebrandt profited personally from that apartment and still charged Alberta taxpayers the full amount. Even though he reimbursed taxpayers after he was caught, Fildebrandt the MLA should not be absolved because Fildebrandt the Alberta Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation would never have allowed it.
Update: Greg Clark has been combing over Fildebrandt's expenses and discovered more anomalies; claiming expenses in more than one city and claiming both receipts as well as his per diem expenses (ie twice for the same meals). Clark has once again called for an investigation into all MLA expense claims.
Alberta MLAs are eligible to claim up to $23,160 non-taxable dollars each year ($1,930 per month) to cover their accommodation expenses in Edmonton. Upon his arrival in the Legislature in 2015, Alberta Party leader Greg Clark called for a change in the reimbursement process when he discovered he was unable to easily claim less than $1,930 per month. In March of 2016, Clark's recommendations requiring MLAs "to claim actual living expenses" rather than a blanket amount were approved by the Member's Services Committee. This change in accommodation expense rules is what will likely come back to haunt Fildebrandt as Clark has now requested an investigation and review of accommodation expenses claimed by current MLAs.
Fildebrandt staunchly claims he did nothing wrong and he is receiving some public support. Personally profiting from taxpayer funded accommodation "absolutely isn't an issue" said the Strathmore-Brooks Wildrose/UCP constituency association president, Ronda Klemmensen. Had the shoe been on the other foot, most (if not all) people who don't support Fildebrandt feel strongly that he would have thrown everything he had in his meme arsenal at the offending MLA(s). Frankly, this double standard, although not new, is confounding.
Whether you support Fildebrandt now or not, if you have heard anything from him over the past 8 years, you have heard him rail against irresponsible spending by government and elected officials. One gets the impression from Fildebrandt of old that he would be the first person to ensure his own expenses and spending were above board. While one right wing publication suggested what he did was not against the rules, it would appear they are unfamiliar with the change Greg Clark successfully implemented in 2016. "Actual expenses" ensure that Fildebrandt's Air BnB profits should have reduced the amount of accommodation expenses claimed by the MLA.
There is no grey area here. Fildebrandt's apartment was paid for by Alberta taxpayers. Fildebrandt profited personally from that apartment and still charged Alberta taxpayers the full amount. Even though he reimbursed taxpayers after he was caught, Fildebrandt the MLA should not be absolved because Fildebrandt the Alberta Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation would never have allowed it.
Update: Greg Clark has been combing over Fildebrandt's expenses and discovered more anomalies; claiming expenses in more than one city and claiming both receipts as well as his per diem expenses (ie twice for the same meals). Clark has once again called for an investigation into all MLA expense claims.
Sunday, 16 July 2017
Centrist Politics: Right-Light Category
As the deadline to buy memberships to vote on the question of conservative unity passed, it was said internal polling by both the former Progressive Conservative and Wildrose parties shows a strong indication of a victory for the unity question. Of the three who have declared their candidacy for the leadership race that will follow a successful vote for a united party, Doug Schweitzer, Jason Kenney and Brian Jean, Schweitzer had been the only one to release a platform for his leadership bid. However, Brian Jean was in full campaign mode when he sat down with Rick Bell on Thursday. That's when things became confusing.
In the last three weeks, I have attended three Alberta Together events, meeting people who are former PC, Wildrose and Liberal supporters. Talking with more than a few of them the issues brought up were: the former PC supporters don't support Kenney and the merger; the Wildrosers are fed up with the idiocy coming from the elected Mouthpiece Legislative Agitators; and the Liberals? They're looking for a fresh start. All of them are looking to a party that holds fiscal conservative and socially progressive values. So, apparently, is Brian Jean.
The current leader of the Wildrose party claimed "most Albertans want a common sense, middle of the road government." That certainly sounds familiar. Greg Clark has been saying this at the "Centre Together" events. Katherine O'Neill has been saying the same at Alberta Together events. Kerry Cundal said the same thing during the Liberal Leadership. One of these things is not like the other; or is it?
"Gone are the days when hard right governments can find success in Alberta" Jean told Rick Bell. Which hard right governments could he possibly be referring to? Certainly not the former PC Party who reigned for 44 years. Sure, Fildebrandt has put out a dog whistle for the Libertarian supporters to "roll back the nanny state". I mean, who doesn't want open liquor in the parks? (Spoiler: Anyone's wife taking their children to a park in their hometown of Calgary and has to deal with drunken arseholes.) Schweitzer took a page from Donald Trump and called for "Two for one" business regulations (remove two regulations for every one introduced) and promised the "biggest tax reduction in Alberta's history". For a province that's currently 11 billion dollars in debt... I just can't.
Then there's the Saskatchewan come Ottawa native, the socially conservative Mr. Jason Kenney who has made Alberta both a national and international embarrassment for his stance on Gay Straight Alliances. With the joyously incredulous platforms of the other leadership contenders (and one on the fence), it seems as if Jean truly could be the centrist option for the Wildrose. The question is, would they have him?
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| Photo Credit: Twitter, Woods Homes @ChildMntlHealth |
The current leader of the Wildrose party claimed "most Albertans want a common sense, middle of the road government." That certainly sounds familiar. Greg Clark has been saying this at the "Centre Together" events. Katherine O'Neill has been saying the same at Alberta Together events. Kerry Cundal said the same thing during the Liberal Leadership. One of these things is not like the other; or is it?
"Gone are the days when hard right governments can find success in Alberta" Jean told Rick Bell. Which hard right governments could he possibly be referring to? Certainly not the former PC Party who reigned for 44 years. Sure, Fildebrandt has put out a dog whistle for the Libertarian supporters to "roll back the nanny state". I mean, who doesn't want open liquor in the parks? (Spoiler: Anyone's wife taking their children to a park in their hometown of Calgary and has to deal with drunken arseholes.) Schweitzer took a page from Donald Trump and called for "Two for one" business regulations (remove two regulations for every one introduced) and promised the "biggest tax reduction in Alberta's history". For a province that's currently 11 billion dollars in debt... I just can't.
Then there's the Saskatchewan come Ottawa native, the socially conservative Mr. Jason Kenney who has made Alberta both a national and international embarrassment for his stance on Gay Straight Alliances. With the joyously incredulous platforms of the other leadership contenders (and one on the fence), it seems as if Jean truly could be the centrist option for the Wildrose. The question is, would they have him?
Monday, 3 July 2017
The Politics of Party Affiliation
In the last week there has been a lot to talk about on the political front and very little of it provided optimism for Alberta. In BC, MLA Christy Clark, who approved the Kinder Morgan pipeline expansion, lost her bid to form government and the NDP's MLA John Horgan was named Premier designate on June 30, 2017. Though an NDP government in BC would seem like a good thing for an NDP government in Alberta, there has been a difference of opinion between the two over the necessity of increasing pipeline capacity to the BC coast.
If that wasn't enough to begin to rile the Conservative troops in Alberta as they prepared to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivered his Canada Day speech in Ottawa naming the individual provinces and territories that make up this incredible country we call Canada and somehow skipped over Alberta. Trudeau and politically engaged individuals across the country felt the backlash before it even started. Just remember, when conservatives make a gaffe and apologize, everyone is expected to accept the apology and move on (*Note, there were a number from Fildebrandt so I just chose one at random).
In Alberta, the conservative party "leaders" (Jason Kenney and MLA Brian Jean) and shakers (MLA Derek Fildebrandt) pounced on the opportunity to rally support from the separatists and conspiracy theorists. Alberta Liberal Leader, David Khan, responded to MLA Brian Jean saying "Canada Day is the ONE day a year when politicians should be inclusive..." (no pun intended, I'm sure). Neither the Alberta Party Leader, MLA Greg Clark, nor Alberta Premier Rachel Notley made any mention of the omission on social media.
I once had a conversation with someone about how it was beneficial for provincial parties to have federal counterparts. The NDP, Liberals and former PC's all had a federal likeness of the same name and the Wildrose had Reform. Even once the latter two parties merged federally, both provincial parties can lay claim to the parentage when it suits them. While the same could also be said for the NDP and Liberals, in a province that went very blue in the federal election the provincial parties are having a rough time with their federal namesakes and even their provincial cousins.
If David Khan didn't have enough of an uphill battle in the province before (and he did), the Prime Minister has managed to be unhelpful despite additional funding provided to the province during the downturn, expedition of infrastructure funding and pipeline approval. For the Alberta NDP, the federal party delivered a stunning blow almost one year after the provincial party was elected to government by tabling, and approving further discussion of the "Leap Manifesto" for implementation into federal NDP climate policy. More recently, MP Jagmeet Singh, a federal NDP leadership candidate, claimed he would not support the addition of any pipelines, east or west for Alberta oil. Meanwhile, the federal Conservatives elected MP Andrew Scheer, a social conservative, to lead their party into the future of yesteryear. Personally, I'm starting to think it a blessing to not have a federal counterpart at all.
If that wasn't enough to begin to rile the Conservative troops in Alberta as they prepared to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivered his Canada Day speech in Ottawa naming the individual provinces and territories that make up this incredible country we call Canada and somehow skipped over Alberta. Trudeau and politically engaged individuals across the country felt the backlash before it even started. Just remember, when conservatives make a gaffe and apologize, everyone is expected to accept the apology and move on (*Note, there were a number from Fildebrandt so I just chose one at random).
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| Credit: Jason Kenney's official Facebook page |
I once had a conversation with someone about how it was beneficial for provincial parties to have federal counterparts. The NDP, Liberals and former PC's all had a federal likeness of the same name and the Wildrose had Reform. Even once the latter two parties merged federally, both provincial parties can lay claim to the parentage when it suits them. While the same could also be said for the NDP and Liberals, in a province that went very blue in the federal election the provincial parties are having a rough time with their federal namesakes and even their provincial cousins.
If David Khan didn't have enough of an uphill battle in the province before (and he did), the Prime Minister has managed to be unhelpful despite additional funding provided to the province during the downturn, expedition of infrastructure funding and pipeline approval. For the Alberta NDP, the federal party delivered a stunning blow almost one year after the provincial party was elected to government by tabling, and approving further discussion of the "Leap Manifesto" for implementation into federal NDP climate policy. More recently, MP Jagmeet Singh, a federal NDP leadership candidate, claimed he would not support the addition of any pipelines, east or west for Alberta oil. Meanwhile, the federal Conservatives elected MP Andrew Scheer, a social conservative, to lead their party into the future of yesteryear. Personally, I'm starting to think it a blessing to not have a federal counterpart at all.
Sunday, 25 June 2017
Bringing Alberta Together
This week I was fortunate enough to attend not one but two meetings about unity. First up was Derek Fildebrandt's Unity Town Hall on Thursday which I tweeted live as best as I was able. In a room of about 80 people, Derek's speech fell flat on the crowd. I've seen him a couple of times in person and he's not a bad speaker. In Question Period he's quite dramatic and often amusing, if only because of his dramatic flair. That was not the case on Thursday and I can't help but think it's because the speech was authored by someone else. The questions at the end were more insightful and Derek was back to his more recognizable self while answering them.
"I look around the room and see 50 and 60 year olds" one man said, "where are the 40 year olds?" As Derek scanned the crowd, I imagine he was disappointed to see me as the lone representative of the age group in question. I've had a few interactions with Derek in the past couple of years and he is well aware I do not support his "vision" for Alberta. "The young people are at the back" Derek said with obvious relief. And they were; the youth volunteers.
"How are you going to engage the young people?" the same man asked. "Liberty Conservativism" Derek replied. "I don't think anyone should go to jail for smoking marijuana" he declared to a group of individuals who likely don't agree with him at all. "I realize that may not be a popular stance in this room" he said. I do believe he is misinterpreting Trudeau's success as being heavily dependent on that statement. What he's missing is how the younger people in this country reacted to Trudeau's declared commitment to the environment, adequately preparing Canada for a future in a global economy and inclusion; and Derek can't offer that commitment to his supporters without alienating a good majority of them. Welcome to Alberta's right wing.
The second event I attended was the Alberta Together meeting in Red Deer. On Friday I was told the event had sold 250 tickets. They accepted registration at the door as well and had 50 blank cards for name tags. They ran out of blank tags and the later arrivals used blank paper squares. They hadn't ordered enough food for lunch and it was pushed back an extra hour as the staff at The Black Knight Inn accommodated a request for food for an additional one hundred people.
To the gentleman at Derek's Unity event, I found the 40 year olds; and the 30 year olds and the 20 year olds who were willing to attend an event about a new political vision for Alberta. There were also 50 year olds and 60 year olds. People from different cultural backgrounds and people from all over the province. There were people from different political backgrounds as well. It was an incredible mix of people who looked a lot like the Alberta I've seen while traveling around the province over the past three months.
At the beginning of the session we logged in to a wireless poll and questions were presented so we could get an idea of whether or not people agreed with statements taken from Alberta Party policy, Liberal policy and former Progressive Conservative policy. There were also a few statements from Wildrose policy. On Liberal, ABP and Progressive Conservative policy, people voted over 90% in agreement with the polices. On Wildrose policy, they voted over 90% in disagreement in all but one category; "the government should provide incentives to employment for people receiving government benefits". That was almost an even split. Talking with attendees afterward, many said it would depend on the program. AISH, Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped, for example, was not a program people believed should be "incentivized" as recipients often could not work, or could not work full-time due to permanent mental or physical disabilities.
While the Alberta Liberal Party was invited to speak to the crowd, they (likely politely) declined. An unfortunate choice to make since the room was full of people looking to hear what their best options were for a party to support in 2019. As it was, they heard from Greg Clark, leader of the Alberta Party, Stephen Mandel, a prominent (former?) Progressive Conservative, and Kerry Cundal, who must be everyone's favourite recent Alberta Liberal supporter. The question "How do we move forward" was posed near the end of the meeting. The options were: Start a new party, attempt a merge with another centrist party, join the Alberta Party and "other". 83% chose "join the Alberta Party".
As the former PC Party and Wildrose fight for the Wildrose supporters of late and the PC members of old, the moderates in Alberta don't seem willing to give up their progressive, or conservative, values. Welcome to the centre; we will build Alberta together.
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| Photo Credit: Daveberta.ca |
"I look around the room and see 50 and 60 year olds" one man said, "where are the 40 year olds?" As Derek scanned the crowd, I imagine he was disappointed to see me as the lone representative of the age group in question. I've had a few interactions with Derek in the past couple of years and he is well aware I do not support his "vision" for Alberta. "The young people are at the back" Derek said with obvious relief. And they were; the youth volunteers.
"How are you going to engage the young people?" the same man asked. "Liberty Conservativism" Derek replied. "I don't think anyone should go to jail for smoking marijuana" he declared to a group of individuals who likely don't agree with him at all. "I realize that may not be a popular stance in this room" he said. I do believe he is misinterpreting Trudeau's success as being heavily dependent on that statement. What he's missing is how the younger people in this country reacted to Trudeau's declared commitment to the environment, adequately preparing Canada for a future in a global economy and inclusion; and Derek can't offer that commitment to his supporters without alienating a good majority of them. Welcome to Alberta's right wing.
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| Kerry Cundal and Stephanie Shostak |
To the gentleman at Derek's Unity event, I found the 40 year olds; and the 30 year olds and the 20 year olds who were willing to attend an event about a new political vision for Alberta. There were also 50 year olds and 60 year olds. People from different cultural backgrounds and people from all over the province. There were people from different political backgrounds as well. It was an incredible mix of people who looked a lot like the Alberta I've seen while traveling around the province over the past three months.
At the beginning of the session we logged in to a wireless poll and questions were presented so we could get an idea of whether or not people agreed with statements taken from Alberta Party policy, Liberal policy and former Progressive Conservative policy. There were also a few statements from Wildrose policy. On Liberal, ABP and Progressive Conservative policy, people voted over 90% in agreement with the polices. On Wildrose policy, they voted over 90% in disagreement in all but one category; "the government should provide incentives to employment for people receiving government benefits". That was almost an even split. Talking with attendees afterward, many said it would depend on the program. AISH, Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped, for example, was not a program people believed should be "incentivized" as recipients often could not work, or could not work full-time due to permanent mental or physical disabilities.
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| Alberta Party Leader Greg Clark Photo Credit: Nicolas Pelletier/Radio-Canada |
As the former PC Party and Wildrose fight for the Wildrose supporters of late and the PC members of old, the moderates in Alberta don't seem willing to give up their progressive, or conservative, values. Welcome to the centre; we will build Alberta together.
Tuesday, 20 June 2017
Another Week, Another Move Toward Unity
It feels like "hurry up and wait". On the left we have the governing NDP making good use of their time and stature holding meet and greets. We have the Alberta Liberal Party's new leader David Khan who has begun an "87 constituency tour", Jason Kenney on a similar path to garner support for Unite the Right and Brian Jean has been reaching out as well. Derek Fildebrandt has also stated he will join the race if the parties merge. The former Progressive Conservatives and Wildrose members will vote on unity July 22, 2017.
Meanwhile, the Unite the Centre initiative has enjoyed a publicity boost from the acquisition of Katherine O'Neill, former President of the Progressive Conservative Party. O'Neill has recently accepted the position of Director of Alberta Together, a political action committee that, according to their website was "started to help shape and support a growing fearless, focused and forward thinking centrist political voice" in Alberta. "It is a not-for-profit organization that puts public service, pragmatic centrist principles and province-building at the top of its agenda."
Back in April, the first Unite the Centre meeting was held in Red Deer. People were invited based on the organizers' knowledge of the invitees' political leanings. Each of the invitees were asked to reach out to others within their communities to bring as many voices to the table as possible.
At that time Kerry Cundal was running for the leadership of the Alberta Liberal Party and though she did not speak on behalf of the party, she attended. Had she won the leadership, she would have known what these conversations were about and how or if her party could benefit from taking part.
The NDP's connection with its federal party will continue to be a tough shadow to cast off. With the latest announcement from the federal NDP leadership candidate Jagmeet Singh that he and his party will oppose both Kinder Morgan and Energy East, the AB NDP are left holding a bag. As much as they would like to move centre, their federal counterparts seem intent upon making them look like Greens on steroids. Add to that the slim-to-none chance of Wildrose or Kenney's party or the UCP quieting their socially conservative, death threat making, immigrant hating, refugee bashing, homophobic members to appeal to a centrist base... and you have just two parties in the centre.
As O'Neill said on Ryan Jespersen's show last week, "there are two parties in the centre; the Liberals and the Alberta Party... what is the best option for 2019?" Greg Clark will be in the room but I believe David Khan is restricted to maintaining the status quo. Seems we'll find out where the conversation leads on Saturday.
If you would like to be part of these discussions, or just want to have lunch and listen, tickets are available for the Alberta Together event on June 24, 2017. The event is scheduled to run from 11:00 am (registration opens at 9:30) until 3:00 pm at the Black Knight Inn in Red Deer.
Meanwhile, the Unite the Centre initiative has enjoyed a publicity boost from the acquisition of Katherine O'Neill, former President of the Progressive Conservative Party. O'Neill has recently accepted the position of Director of Alberta Together, a political action committee that, according to their website was "started to help shape and support a growing fearless, focused and forward thinking centrist political voice" in Alberta. "It is a not-for-profit organization that puts public service, pragmatic centrist principles and province-building at the top of its agenda."
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| http://albertatogether.ca |
At that time Kerry Cundal was running for the leadership of the Alberta Liberal Party and though she did not speak on behalf of the party, she attended. Had she won the leadership, she would have known what these conversations were about and how or if her party could benefit from taking part.
The NDP's connection with its federal party will continue to be a tough shadow to cast off. With the latest announcement from the federal NDP leadership candidate Jagmeet Singh that he and his party will oppose both Kinder Morgan and Energy East, the AB NDP are left holding a bag. As much as they would like to move centre, their federal counterparts seem intent upon making them look like Greens on steroids. Add to that the slim-to-none chance of Wildrose or Kenney's party or the UCP quieting their socially conservative, death threat making, immigrant hating, refugee bashing, homophobic members to appeal to a centrist base... and you have just two parties in the centre.
As O'Neill said on Ryan Jespersen's show last week, "there are two parties in the centre; the Liberals and the Alberta Party... what is the best option for 2019?" Greg Clark will be in the room but I believe David Khan is restricted to maintaining the status quo. Seems we'll find out where the conversation leads on Saturday.
If you would like to be part of these discussions, or just want to have lunch and listen, tickets are available for the Alberta Together event on June 24, 2017. The event is scheduled to run from 11:00 am (registration opens at 9:30) until 3:00 pm at the Black Knight Inn in Red Deer.
Wednesday, 7 June 2017
The Fight for the Centre
In the past week some Alberta Liberal Party members were able to vote for their choice of Liberal Party leader. I say "some" because there were a number of disqualified voters. In the end, 77% of registered party members (Almost 1700) voted. It was probably a tough choice. David Khan and Kerry Cundal are probably the most likable and genuine individuals to face off in Alberta politics in a very long time.
David wanted to rebuild the Liberal brand in Alberta. He wanted to put in the work to remind people why the Alberta Liberal Party was the oldest party in the province. He wanted to make the Alberta Liberals great again. Kerry wanted a mandate to build a stronger centre. She thought it was time to stop fighting for the same voter base in the middle of the political spectrum. She said now was the time to work together with the other centrist party, the Alberta Party, and the politically homeless Progressive Conservatives who did not want to be part of a Jason Kenney - Wildrose "frankenparty". The result was David Khan with 54% of the vote and Kerry Cundal with 46%; David won by 133 votes from a total of 1697 votes cast.
No doubt Kerry was disappointed. As she boarded her flight overseas, I imagined she was feeling down. It was a whirlwind of a campaign; six months worth of campaigning crammed into two. She and David traveled the province meeting people for coffees, breakfasts, lunches, dinners, drinks and attending events; some of them together (they're also friends outside of the political arena). Which is harder on a candidate? Losing by a little or a lot? When it's close you think there must have been something more you could have done; one more day of phone calls, one more trip to the other end of the province or sold a hundred and fifty more memberships to people who wouldn't be disqualified... who knows.
That was June 4th and the campaign hangover had to be pretty bad on the 5th, but time heals all wounds. On June 6, David sent out an email reiterating his pledge to rebuild and re-energize the party and asked those who supported both him and Kerry to join together and work towards 2019. If Kerry had some of the fight knocked out of her on Sunday it was back with a vengeance by Tuesday.
The email was titled "Let's continue this discussion". She thanked the volunteers, supporters and the ALP members for being involved in the process. She thanked those who were willing to think outside the box. Then she reached out to half of the registered Liberal voters. "46% of you were interested in hearing about what it would mean to see cooperation with other centrists and progressives in Alberta. That discussion is ongoing and I want to personally invite you... to be a part of it."
The next meeting to discuss Alberta Together is happening in Red Deer on June 24th, 2017 from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased here and it is open to anyone who wishes to be a part of this movement. Kerry even invited David to take part; after all, almost half of the voting members chose to support a different view. David knows he will have a lot of work ahead of him and the fight for the centre is just beginning.
The NDP and UCP would like people to think they are the only choices in 2019. This works for both of them but does it work for Albertans? The majority of Albertans voted PC for 44 years. The NDP is trying to move to the centre. The UCP could try to move into the centre as well but with Kenney's voting history and the Wildrose's ... well, Wildrose-iness, it won't be easy for them. So who does that leave as an option? It could be the Liberals but somehow having a majority in the federal government hasn't helped their brand here in Alberta.
Rachel Notley addressed a crowd in Calgary on June 1st asking "people who believe just as much in being progressive as they do in being conservative" to consider the NDP as a "pragmatic, progressive home." Greg Clark joined Ryan Jespersen on 630 CHED on June 7 and he referred to the influx of new members the Alberta Party has seen over the past couple of months. "There's definitely momentum in the centre and it's heading our way" he said. Be that as it may, the only parties not aiming for the centrist voters are the highly contentious conservatives.
Call it arrogance, call it disdain; the conservatives don't want anyone who can't call themselves an absolute conservative. The NDP, Alberta Party and Liberals are opening their doors to progressive conservatives. That will leave three choices on the left of the right and one party, if the Kenney-Wildrose supporters surrender to the call for power, on the right. And what will happen then? Will there be enough of a split between the left and centre parties to allow Kenney-Wildrose to form government? Anything's possible.
REMINDER: Members of the Wildrose Party must have been registered two weeks prior to the July 22 AGM to vote for what they think will be best for Alberta's future. The PC Party needs 51% to vote for unity and the Wildrose needs 75%. Wildrose memberships can be purchased for $10.
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| Image Credit: thoughtundermined.com |
No doubt Kerry was disappointed. As she boarded her flight overseas, I imagined she was feeling down. It was a whirlwind of a campaign; six months worth of campaigning crammed into two. She and David traveled the province meeting people for coffees, breakfasts, lunches, dinners, drinks and attending events; some of them together (they're also friends outside of the political arena). Which is harder on a candidate? Losing by a little or a lot? When it's close you think there must have been something more you could have done; one more day of phone calls, one more trip to the other end of the province or sold a hundred and fifty more memberships to people who wouldn't be disqualified... who knows.
That was June 4th and the campaign hangover had to be pretty bad on the 5th, but time heals all wounds. On June 6, David sent out an email reiterating his pledge to rebuild and re-energize the party and asked those who supported both him and Kerry to join together and work towards 2019. If Kerry had some of the fight knocked out of her on Sunday it was back with a vengeance by Tuesday.
The email was titled "Let's continue this discussion". She thanked the volunteers, supporters and the ALP members for being involved in the process. She thanked those who were willing to think outside the box. Then she reached out to half of the registered Liberal voters. "46% of you were interested in hearing about what it would mean to see cooperation with other centrists and progressives in Alberta. That discussion is ongoing and I want to personally invite you... to be a part of it."
The next meeting to discuss Alberta Together is happening in Red Deer on June 24th, 2017 from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased here and it is open to anyone who wishes to be a part of this movement. Kerry even invited David to take part; after all, almost half of the voting members chose to support a different view. David knows he will have a lot of work ahead of him and the fight for the centre is just beginning.
The NDP and UCP would like people to think they are the only choices in 2019. This works for both of them but does it work for Albertans? The majority of Albertans voted PC for 44 years. The NDP is trying to move to the centre. The UCP could try to move into the centre as well but with Kenney's voting history and the Wildrose's ... well, Wildrose-iness, it won't be easy for them. So who does that leave as an option? It could be the Liberals but somehow having a majority in the federal government hasn't helped their brand here in Alberta.
Rachel Notley addressed a crowd in Calgary on June 1st asking "people who believe just as much in being progressive as they do in being conservative" to consider the NDP as a "pragmatic, progressive home." Greg Clark joined Ryan Jespersen on 630 CHED on June 7 and he referred to the influx of new members the Alberta Party has seen over the past couple of months. "There's definitely momentum in the centre and it's heading our way" he said. Be that as it may, the only parties not aiming for the centrist voters are the highly contentious conservatives.
Call it arrogance, call it disdain; the conservatives don't want anyone who can't call themselves an absolute conservative. The NDP, Alberta Party and Liberals are opening their doors to progressive conservatives. That will leave three choices on the left of the right and one party, if the Kenney-Wildrose supporters surrender to the call for power, on the right. And what will happen then? Will there be enough of a split between the left and centre parties to allow Kenney-Wildrose to form government? Anything's possible.
REMINDER: Members of the Wildrose Party must have been registered two weeks prior to the July 22 AGM to vote for what they think will be best for Alberta's future. The PC Party needs 51% to vote for unity and the Wildrose needs 75%. Wildrose memberships can be purchased for $10.
Friday, 19 May 2017
The Golden Opportunity with UCP
The backroom deal-making that wasn’t supposed to happen with a
Wildrose PC merger seems to be exactly what was needed to bring the parties
into agreement. Kenney had been persona
non grata after the Gay-Straight Alliance media
backlash in March but
resurfaced in BC stumping for the Liberal party in April. As the BC election
resulted in a reduction of Liberal seats to a tie with the NDP and created a
shockingly powerful Green Party swing vote, it would appear his presence did
more harm than good. One can only hope he
finds similar success in the 2019 election.
Back in the public eye in Alberta, Jason Kenney's highly anticipated and subsequently disappointing
non-announcement on May 5, 2017 seemed to suggest there
might not be enough agreement to build a unity plan after all. The Unity
Discussion Group was formed a
mere 6 weeks earlier with unity backers from the former PC party (and one
person who declined to take part) and elected individuals from the Wildrose.
There were rumblings that the discussions were not going well between the
parties and that it was rooted in a general mistrust of the other side.
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| Photo Credit: Terry Reith/CBC |
Fast forward to May 18 where the unlikely future colleagues announced
they have found a way forward to create the United Conservative Party, or UCP.
While there may have been some hard work on behalf of the discussion
group, it sounds as if it was Brian Jean who needed the final nudge. Nine of his MLAs reportedly confronted him and said they would cross the floor to join the Kenney-led PC's, making them the official opposition, unless he accepted the agreement.
However they managed it, there is finally some movement for the
two parties who would like to blend together into one slightly larger Wildrose
party with Wildrose values, policies and, the big win, some former PC supporters.
If that doesn't cause you to swoon, Alberta will be treated to yet another leadership race involving Jason Kenney
this year as the parties have agreed to hold the leadership election on October 28, 2017.
While the parties have made a
small move in the “right” direction, hundreds, perhaps even thousands of
current members are still going to have to vote for unity. The former PCs require 51% of their membership to approve the
agreement and the Wildrose needs 75. Add to this the simultaneous messaging of the Wildrose members being
promised their party, policies and values will remain, and the former PCs are being
promised they will defeat Notley's government. So, win/win... I guess?
There’s still hope; if Kenney has taught us anything since
entering Alberta politics it's that anyone can buy a membership and vote; even
(especially?) if you don’t support the party.
We all have an idea of what
would happen if they unite but what if the current or future membership did not
support unity? Kenney appeals to a faction of the Wildrose base so they
could continue to bleed votes without a unity agreement. Kenney has a
well-known track record of not supporting human rights for all and is an easy
target on the subject. Did I mention that anyone can buy a membership and
vote for what they believe will be the best outcome for the people of this
province? Members must be registered 21 days prior to voting. Just
saying.
Friday, 5 May 2017
War of the Roses
When Jason Kenney was elected as the leader of the Progressive Conservative Party on March 18, 2017, he was elected on a platform to Unite Alberta, or Conservatives, or the Right, depending whose event you attended and in which geographical location. Since his election, we have seen the formation of a group of right-leaning PC and Wildrose members who were to tackle this business of unity. The most recent official update stated the group was having discussions and would later update on those discussions. It doesn't appear that much is being accomplished in that area. Or is it?
On Sunday night, the rumour mill started running. Word was that there were 5 sitting PC MLAs (David Rodney, Prab Gill, Ric McIver, Richard Gotfried and Mike Ellis) and 5 WRP MLAs who were going to form an independent caucus in the legislature on Monday afternoon. I reached out to someone I thought would know and he told me my grapevine was over-excited. As we now know, it didn't happen on Monday but word is still strong that the plan is going forward.
On Tuesday I attended the New Conservative Dinner hosted by Scott Gilmore. Having attended a few sessions in the very recent past asking similar questions (what is important to you? how should we be moving forward? why are you unhappy with the current state of politics?) the only change was the attendees. I've participated in discussions with Liberals, Centrists and Moderates. I've even had lunch with a nutty Wildroser who, unfortunately, confirmed every reason why I could never support that party.
There was a mix of people at this event and that makes things interesting. One gentleman said he didn't quite understand why these discussions were taking place right now. Why not wait until after the federal leadership race was over? My best guess is that it's because people are engaged right now; after the leadership race, they may pack up or disengage. I agree that the time for these conversations is now.
Unsurprisingly, there were a number of people who complained their MP didn't seem to represent them. The majority of people in the room self-disclosed as card carrying CPC members with a show of hands when Scott asked. The leadership race has been incredibly divisive with anti-Canadian values and anti-everything that most people realize is the new normal. Many agreed with a statement from one woman who said "the country has evolved; the CPC has not". And that's what many progressive conservatives are currently saying to the PC/WR party.
Evolution is not generally a Conservative strong point and that's literally a definition; conserving tradition, processes, beliefs, and so on. Jason Kenney represents that description to a tee. So is it any wonder that polls are suggesting an overall preference for Brian Jean to lead the united party? In comparison, Brian Jean is more moderate than Jason Kenney can ever hope to pretend to be. Brian Jean would have the opportunity to keep some of those centre-right leaning members.
The situation is remarkably similar to the federal party. While Michael Chong is the favourite for the Progressive Conservatives of old, and while he is moderate enough to actually have a shot at stealing votes from Trudeau; it's unlikely he will win because "he's either first on your ballot or last". Bernier will not be last on a PC ballot because Trost, Leitch or Alexander will take that spot (the CPC use a ranked ballot where voters place their first, second, third down to 10th pick) meaning he will likely outrank Chong by being higher up on the ballot than last.
Logically, it fails. The majority has spoken and said they would support Jean over Kenney. So the tidbit that was dropped off to me on Tuesday makes little sense. In a leadership race Jean would win unless another Wildroser entered that race to split the vote; someone under the Wildrose banner but who has always been on Team Kenney. That was the tidbit... power over people. No surprise there.
On Sunday night, the rumour mill started running. Word was that there were 5 sitting PC MLAs (David Rodney, Prab Gill, Ric McIver, Richard Gotfried and Mike Ellis) and 5 WRP MLAs who were going to form an independent caucus in the legislature on Monday afternoon. I reached out to someone I thought would know and he told me my grapevine was over-excited. As we now know, it didn't happen on Monday but word is still strong that the plan is going forward.
 |
| Credit: Global News |
There was a mix of people at this event and that makes things interesting. One gentleman said he didn't quite understand why these discussions were taking place right now. Why not wait until after the federal leadership race was over? My best guess is that it's because people are engaged right now; after the leadership race, they may pack up or disengage. I agree that the time for these conversations is now.
Unsurprisingly, there were a number of people who complained their MP didn't seem to represent them. The majority of people in the room self-disclosed as card carrying CPC members with a show of hands when Scott asked. The leadership race has been incredibly divisive with anti-Canadian values and anti-everything that most people realize is the new normal. Many agreed with a statement from one woman who said "the country has evolved; the CPC has not". And that's what many progressive conservatives are currently saying to the PC/WR party.
Evolution is not generally a Conservative strong point and that's literally a definition; conserving tradition, processes, beliefs, and so on. Jason Kenney represents that description to a tee. So is it any wonder that polls are suggesting an overall preference for Brian Jean to lead the united party? In comparison, Brian Jean is more moderate than Jason Kenney can ever hope to pretend to be. Brian Jean would have the opportunity to keep some of those centre-right leaning members.
The situation is remarkably similar to the federal party. While Michael Chong is the favourite for the Progressive Conservatives of old, and while he is moderate enough to actually have a shot at stealing votes from Trudeau; it's unlikely he will win because "he's either first on your ballot or last". Bernier will not be last on a PC ballot because Trost, Leitch or Alexander will take that spot (the CPC use a ranked ballot where voters place their first, second, third down to 10th pick) meaning he will likely outrank Chong by being higher up on the ballot than last.
Logically, it fails. The majority has spoken and said they would support Jean over Kenney. So the tidbit that was dropped off to me on Tuesday makes little sense. In a leadership race Jean would win unless another Wildroser entered that race to split the vote; someone under the Wildrose banner but who has always been on Team Kenney. That was the tidbit... power over people. No surprise there.
Monday, 3 April 2017
Wildrose: Whose Side of the Wall are They Really On?
On March 29, 2017, someone from Whitecap Resources in Calgary provided a letter they'd received from Brad Wall to the Canadian Press. That letter was an advertisement of what benefits would be awaiting Whitecap Resources should they decide to pack up their Calgary operations and relocate to Saskatchewan. While some considered it standard poaching, others suggested it could also be a breach of current trade agreements.
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| Brian Jean, Leader of the Wildrose Party |
If Alberta-based companies pick up and move to Saskatchewan, the official opposition will have the one thing they don't have yet: evidence. Certainly, there have been job losses in Alberta from an oil free-fall but that happened in Saskatchewan and Newfoundland as well; under a Conservative and Liberal government, respectively. What the official opposition desperately needs is evidence but what Alberta needs is someone who has our back here at home.
Instead of defending Alberta jobs while in Saskatchewan on Mar. 31, 2017, Prasad Panda, MLA for Calgary-Foothills blamed Notley for attacking "everyone (in Alberta) with tax increases" (though he didn't mention Premier Wall's recent tax increase). In a video posted to Facebook last week, Brian Jean says he doesn't "want to tolerate other provinces being a better place to invest than Alberta" (but apparently, he will). Even during question period today, Derek Fildebrandt said that although he thinks Brad Wall violated the New West Partnership agreement, he wonders if the NDP didn't start the fight by imposing increased rates on imported beer. Those are just the recent comments but this anti-Alberta behaviour has been going on for months.
Contrary to this Wildrose narrative, Alberta's corporate tax structure, lack of a PST and lower personal income taxes still make it a better place to invest for businesses. The Wildrose seem to be firmly against encouraging business to stay, doing almost as good a job recommending that businesses seek greener pastures as Brad Wall.
Brad Wall is pouring salt on the wound of a city and an economy that is still feeling the sting of low oil prices. Is it unexpected? Hardly. Ever since the NDP was elected, Mr. Wall has been campaigning in Alberta; especially for oil investment.
Back in June of 2016, Wall was already on his business development tour of Alberta speaking to the Calgary Petroleum Club members. He was more subtle than he has been since but the goal was the same. I'm all for having a hero but I think it's time the Wildrose stop cheerleading for Brad Wall and start supporting those who should really matter to a party vying for government: Albertans.
Back in June of 2016, Wall was already on his business development tour of Alberta speaking to the Calgary Petroleum Club members. He was more subtle than he has been since but the goal was the same. I'm all for having a hero but I think it's time the Wildrose stop cheerleading for Brad Wall and start supporting those who should really matter to a party vying for government: Albertans.
Friday, 17 March 2017
Go In Peace, PC Party
We are officially less than 12 hours away from the launch of the PC Leadership Convention and excitement is in the air! To be clear, there's no sense of anticipation regarding the actual leadership vote as there's very little probability that Jason Kenney will not win. If he's been truthful about the elected delegates being on his team, this is hardly even a contest. What's really exhilarating is that there will be a new race starting on March 19, 2017! How can we be so lucky to have all of this activity in between election years?!
Strangely enough, the Leadership race has shown us what Albertans and many PC members thought about the party: they're done. There are a few hangers on; some passionate and dedicated individuals who don't want to see their party dissolved into obscurity and I feel for them. Ironically, the man who believes everyone has the right to die a slow painful death wants to be the one to remove the PC jugular and save it from such a fate.
The new United Conservative party will be the next big conversation piece in Alberta politics and it will be anything but dull. Back in Nov - Dec 2016 a poll specifically asked those who favoured a United Conservative party if they would prefer a party led by Brian Jean or Jason Kenney. Respondents chose Jean. At that time, Brian Jean was claiming the Wildrose was not interested in joining with the PC party. Only a mere month later, Jean announced he would step down from the Wildrose and run for leadership of that united party.
Then came a new twist. A few days ago, another poll claimed that although Jean still held the lead in a race with Kenney he was not the front runner. With an easy majority of votes, the clear winner to lead a United Conservative party was "I don't know", followed closely by "Someone else". The publicly interested candidates are third and fourth... out of four possible choices.
Now that's what builds anticipation. Who could this potential leader be? People have suggested yet a third CPC MP alternative in Rona Ambrose but she hasn't shown any interest in the role. Is there another former CPC MP who might be up to the task? Would the membership even consider someone who wasn't a CPC MP? Is there someone just biding their time until the united party is created? The plot is so full of possible twists that whiplash becomes more than a potential side effect.
And that, my friends, will give everyone something to talk about.
D.
Strangely enough, the Leadership race has shown us what Albertans and many PC members thought about the party: they're done. There are a few hangers on; some passionate and dedicated individuals who don't want to see their party dissolved into obscurity and I feel for them. Ironically, the man who believes everyone has the right to die a slow painful death wants to be the one to remove the PC jugular and save it from such a fate.
The new United Conservative party will be the next big conversation piece in Alberta politics and it will be anything but dull. Back in Nov - Dec 2016 a poll specifically asked those who favoured a United Conservative party if they would prefer a party led by Brian Jean or Jason Kenney. Respondents chose Jean. At that time, Brian Jean was claiming the Wildrose was not interested in joining with the PC party. Only a mere month later, Jean announced he would step down from the Wildrose and run for leadership of that united party.
Then came a new twist. A few days ago, another poll claimed that although Jean still held the lead in a race with Kenney he was not the front runner. With an easy majority of votes, the clear winner to lead a United Conservative party was "I don't know", followed closely by "Someone else". The publicly interested candidates are third and fourth... out of four possible choices.
Now that's what builds anticipation. Who could this potential leader be? People have suggested yet a third CPC MP alternative in Rona Ambrose but she hasn't shown any interest in the role. Is there another former CPC MP who might be up to the task? Would the membership even consider someone who wasn't a CPC MP? Is there someone just biding their time until the united party is created? The plot is so full of possible twists that whiplash becomes more than a potential side effect.
And that, my friends, will give everyone something to talk about.
D.
Wednesday, 15 March 2017
The NDP Hits Back and Gets Slapped
Monday's Question Period in the Legislature yielded a surprising statement from the Deputy Premier, Sarah Hoffman, that sparked an immediate backlash and gave rise to a number of interpretations from across the political spectrum. I had some initial misgivings about searching both "youtube" and "sewer rats" but I wasn't disappointed. The first offering was a video titled "NDP: You're all sewer rats!". And that seems like as good a place to start as any.
In case you haven't heard, in response to Jason Nixon (WR - Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre), Sarah Hoffman (ND - Edmonton - Glenora, Alberta Health Minister, Deputy Premier) replied "...while we're focused on hard hats, they're spending time with sewer rats". Brian Jean took to Twitter to claim this was a direct insult to Albertans and many people agreed with him.
On the other side of the debate was a confident and unapologetic interpretation of "sewer rats" referring to bigots, xenophobes, racists and the like, along with their sympathizers, fans and/or subscribers. Hoffman has since apologized, saying only that it "certainly did not refer to Albertans". Was it a dumb comment? I think so. Was it as outrageous as some are making it out to be? Not so much.
I tend to check out Urban Dictionary when I want to know what the cool kids are saying (and I know what I'll get if I use an actual dictionary to find a definition for "sewer rat"). In summary, even Urban Dictionary had an entry for the literal term and none of the definitions seemed to fit either description from the political right or left. The short list is rat-like features, "greasy, short male", "Ja Rule" (I don't even want to know) "Underground (secretive)" and my personal favourite "A punk ass scrap tryin (sic) to be hard".
The examples are extraordinarily specific but if I put it all together, I would go with "unsavoury character" which is what a few people were saying at the time. I, for one, think it relates to last week's Wildrose on Campus dumpster fire. I have to note that issue itself received zero coverage from the opinion outlets; so much for "we report what the mainstream media won't" except when they want to provide some fuel for fired up ... Wildrosers?
Even though it wasn't quite on the same level as "Feminism is Cancer", the Wildrose corner the market on outrage. They also corner the market on correct interpretations, apparently. According to the #ableg feed from Monday night, only Brian Jean and fellow Wildrosers could accurately interpret Hoffman's meaning and all others who attempted were called "mind readers" and "clairvoyants".
The Wildrose blunder had more to do with timing; it was two days before International Women's Day. Would it have sparked outrage anyway? Likely. Would it have been soooooo bad if it happened in April? Probably not. I would also recommend taking a look at the Red Pill if you get a chance as it's not about the men's movement that advocates for repeal of rape laws (surprise! That's a thing... a white guy thing).
Do I consider Hoffman's outburst to be worthy of the right wing drama? Not really. I highly doubted she was referring to Albertans at the time and I haven't been convinced by the Wildrose or opinion commentators who assert that she was. All I can say is, if it speaks to you, then maybe you are one. Wallow in it, whine about it, wear the badge with whatever pride this gives you. I know she wasn't referring to me.
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| Remy and Linguine ~ Ratatouille |
On the other side of the debate was a confident and unapologetic interpretation of "sewer rats" referring to bigots, xenophobes, racists and the like, along with their sympathizers, fans and/or subscribers. Hoffman has since apologized, saying only that it "certainly did not refer to Albertans". Was it a dumb comment? I think so. Was it as outrageous as some are making it out to be? Not so much.
I tend to check out Urban Dictionary when I want to know what the cool kids are saying (and I know what I'll get if I use an actual dictionary to find a definition for "sewer rat"). In summary, even Urban Dictionary had an entry for the literal term and none of the definitions seemed to fit either description from the political right or left. The short list is rat-like features, "greasy, short male", "Ja Rule" (I don't even want to know) "Underground (secretive)" and my personal favourite "A punk ass scrap tryin (sic) to be hard".
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| Disney's "Ratatouille" |
Even though it wasn't quite on the same level as "Feminism is Cancer", the Wildrose corner the market on outrage. They also corner the market on correct interpretations, apparently. According to the #ableg feed from Monday night, only Brian Jean and fellow Wildrosers could accurately interpret Hoffman's meaning and all others who attempted were called "mind readers" and "clairvoyants".
The Wildrose blunder had more to do with timing; it was two days before International Women's Day. Would it have sparked outrage anyway? Likely. Would it have been soooooo bad if it happened in April? Probably not. I would also recommend taking a look at the Red Pill if you get a chance as it's not about the men's movement that advocates for repeal of rape laws (surprise! That's a thing... a white guy thing).
Do I consider Hoffman's outburst to be worthy of the right wing drama? Not really. I highly doubted she was referring to Albertans at the time and I haven't been convinced by the Wildrose or opinion commentators who assert that she was. All I can say is, if it speaks to you, then maybe you are one. Wallow in it, whine about it, wear the badge with whatever pride this gives you. I know she wasn't referring to me.
Friday, 10 March 2017
The Legend of Robert McDavid
Robert McDavid was the supposed Communications Director for the Wildrose on Campus (WROC) at the University of Calgary, according to the executives Keean Bexte and Don MacLeod (who have both since resigned their posts). On March 6, 2017, an email was circulated inviting members to a screening of "The Red Pill" sponsored in part by the WROC and Conservative Party of Canada (CPC) Youth. The subject line of that email was "Feminism is Cancer", an apparent nod to the "alt-right" poster boy Milo Yiannopolous. According to Bexte, McDavid was fired after the email went public.
Jason Herring of The Gauntlet took on the task of trying to find McDavid. WROC executives claimed McDavid was a first-year student in Engineering but the Office of the Registrar at the U of C could not find a student registered under that name. Herring also tried to reach two McDavid's listed in the public directory but was unsuccessful. Although no one can seem to find this person, "evidence" of his existence has been popping up in the least surprising places.
On March 8, 2017 Herring again reported on the story. At that time, he had discovered a Facebook profile for "Robert McDavid" created on March 7, 2017 (since removed for violation of FB community standards). The above screenshot of an account created this month showed up on Twitter last night. The two accounts following the egg are an ardent Jason Kenney supporter and an account that performs essentially the same role as the former; disagreeing with, or "fact checking" those who disagree with Kenney.
Bexte was also a Jason Kenney supporting delegate at the upcoming PC Leadership convention. Bexte... founder of the Wildrose on Campus... was a PC Youth delegate.
Let that simmer amidst the claims of Wildrose members infiltrating the PC Party to elect Jason Kenney...
Is this "just politics"? Is this the politics our youth are being taught? Modeled? That it's okay to make false political plays to get what you want and if something goes wrong you just "blame" and "fire" a non-existent member? Maybe this kid was planning a future in politics. Tell me, what is school like for him right now? What does his future hold?
His name is associated with "Feminism is Cancer", "blaming a non-existent staffer" and being asked to resign from a delegate position. And for what? If there is someone else behind this little charade, they should be taking full responsibility from this kid because that's what he is: a kid. A kid whose name, and shame, will not be forgotten in political circles.
D.
Jason Herring of The Gauntlet took on the task of trying to find McDavid. WROC executives claimed McDavid was a first-year student in Engineering but the Office of the Registrar at the U of C could not find a student registered under that name. Herring also tried to reach two McDavid's listed in the public directory but was unsuccessful. Although no one can seem to find this person, "evidence" of his existence has been popping up in the least surprising places.On March 8, 2017 Herring again reported on the story. At that time, he had discovered a Facebook profile for "Robert McDavid" created on March 7, 2017 (since removed for violation of FB community standards). The above screenshot of an account created this month showed up on Twitter last night. The two accounts following the egg are an ardent Jason Kenney supporter and an account that performs essentially the same role as the former; disagreeing with, or "fact checking" those who disagree with Kenney.
Let that simmer amidst the claims of Wildrose members infiltrating the PC Party to elect Jason Kenney...
Is this "just politics"? Is this the politics our youth are being taught? Modeled? That it's okay to make false political plays to get what you want and if something goes wrong you just "blame" and "fire" a non-existent member? Maybe this kid was planning a future in politics. Tell me, what is school like for him right now? What does his future hold?
His name is associated with "Feminism is Cancer", "blaming a non-existent staffer" and being asked to resign from a delegate position. And for what? If there is someone else behind this little charade, they should be taking full responsibility from this kid because that's what he is: a kid. A kid whose name, and shame, will not be forgotten in political circles.
D.
Tuesday, 7 March 2017
Zero Days Without Incident
It was a simple task. Send out an email invite to the screening of a movie that is controversial enough to get their name in the paper and have everyone talking about them. Ideally, they were probably hoping for a censorship backlash that could have resulted in a "free speech" fight with the University. That's what could have happened when they hit "send" but it's not what happened. Instead, the Wildrose faction of University of Calgary students found themselves in the centre of another debate; Women's Equality. While there are numerous ways to get your name in the paper, this is not the favoured route, even for the Wildrose. However, as Derek Fildebrandt so eloquently stated "Hyper-sensitive, politically correct, victim as virtue culture is creating a leadership class of wimps." (Nov 12, 2016). Though Fildebrandt insists he is not a social conservative, it's the company you keep.
I mean, in 2012 when the Wildrose did not form government after so many polls said they would, many pointed to the "Lake of Fire" story and claimed it contributed to their loss. In April of 2015, Rick Strankman, MLA for Drumheller-Stettler took some heat for staying out of the kitchen when a "volunteer" circulated an invitation asking attendees to "Bring Your Wife's Pie".
Add to this the new Maxime Bernier meme featuring double-downer Wildrose MLA Derek Fildebrandt and referencing the "red pill" which he circulated yesterday and you have a full-blown blow back. Especially when the tweeter of said meme claims to have no knowledge of the more modern interpretation of "red pill". If a reader is so inclined, they can google it - I won't link to such garbage.For a political party that has seen their fair (or unfair, if you swing that way) share of controversy since becoming the Wildrose, this doesn't help. Personally, I don't see this doing any harm to their brand. This is, after all, their brand.
And if Jason Kenney is successful in winning the PC leadership, dissolving the PC party, getting Wildrose to agree to dissolve their party, and creating a new conservative party, people will forget the Wildrose Party of Alberta ever existed. Which, really, is nothing but beneficial for them in a modern world.
Friday, 17 February 2017
PC Party Delegate Selection Meeting
Earlier in February I drove over an hour to attend a delegate selection meeting (DSM). This is just one more of those things that I've never had the interest, and therefore the opportunity, to attend. I'm glad I went, though, because it was a gong show.
The average age of attendees was around 59. I wondered as I was looking around the room if it was just older people who show up at these things. Then I remembered I do have something to compare it to. Do you know what the average age is at an Alberta Party event? I'd give it 38. I promise to attend a Liberal and NDP event in the future so I can compare them as well but obviously, this is a problem for conservatives.
As I entered the designated locale, there were two people standing outside the doors. "Jason Kenney?" One of them asked me. "Uhhh" I stammered. I wanted that sheet, but I also wanted the other one and I didn't know how this worked. "Renewal?" The next guy asked while handing me a sheet. I smiled and took his sheet as well. I entered the building and there were four tables set up for registration. She found my name, checked my two pieces of identification and gave me a ballot. Being my first time I filled it out right away since I thought I had all the information I needed.
The rules were reviewed for us and we were going to hear from each of the delegates. They were instructed to not say anything disparaging about another campaign or candidate and I now wished I could attend more to see if that's a problem at DSMs or if it's just part of the rules. Even though I'd already chosen my candidates, I was happy we were going to hear from them. (((Gong)))
The delegates were going to come up one by one and none of them took their full minute. Due to their efficiency, I can put this into bullet points:
The average age of attendees was around 59. I wondered as I was looking around the room if it was just older people who show up at these things. Then I remembered I do have something to compare it to. Do you know what the average age is at an Alberta Party event? I'd give it 38. I promise to attend a Liberal and NDP event in the future so I can compare them as well but obviously, this is a problem for conservatives.
As I entered the designated locale, there were two people standing outside the doors. "Jason Kenney?" One of them asked me. "Uhhh" I stammered. I wanted that sheet, but I also wanted the other one and I didn't know how this worked. "Renewal?" The next guy asked while handing me a sheet. I smiled and took his sheet as well. I entered the building and there were four tables set up for registration. She found my name, checked my two pieces of identification and gave me a ballot. Being my first time I filled it out right away since I thought I had all the information I needed.
The rules were reviewed for us and we were going to hear from each of the delegates. They were instructed to not say anything disparaging about another campaign or candidate and I now wished I could attend more to see if that's a problem at DSMs or if it's just part of the rules. Even though I'd already chosen my candidates, I was happy we were going to hear from them. (((Gong)))
The delegates were going to come up one by one and none of them took their full minute. Due to their efficiency, I can put this into bullet points:
- is not committed to any candidate. He is waiting for proof that the person running will be a good premier. He was in municipal government and says that in 10 years he had never had an unbalanced budget. He said government needs to get used to working with what they have and getting the best value for their dollar. He was new to this process and didn't trust those who make big promises and statements because you can't give everyone everything.
- is supporting unity as it's the "only way". A coalition, he said, was just another shady backroom deal like the last time that would alienate voters. After they unite we can then have our choice of leader.
- "Alberta fell apart" she said "and it scared" her. She is a teacher. "We need to teach kids what PC Alberta is" (is that social engineering?). She wants a fiscally conservative, socially responsible government. She is on the Renewal slate.
- this delegate was listed on both slates as a supporter (wish I'd seen that before I marked my ballot) and was excused from attendance for a valid reason so I have no idea what he stands for.
- was an Albertan first and would vote to unite together as conservatives.
- wanted to unify on bigger issues than "defeat the NDP" and she wanted to "do it right". She also mentioned that she saw a lot of "Wild Conservatives" and "Progressive Rosies" in the crowd.
- brought up a piece of paper, said she wouldn't take long and had a verbal vomit of "grassroots members, conservatives unite, end socialist government, grassroots"... Unity slate.
- said it didn't matter who the leader was so long as they "talk to us".
- is a long-time conservative and is pro-unity.
- said "if we do the same thing in 2019 expecting a different result, we're kidding ourselves." He wants to unite under Jason Kenney. He also noted that he was listed on both slates and that was evidence of the "top-down PC party" of the past.
- wants to unite before the NDP tears this province apart.
- says we need to be strong and get the province back where it should be.
- wants to unite the parties with the grassroots. There is no future with the NDP.
- believed that uniting the right was "admirable" but he wanted the parties to "do it right".
- he wasn't sure who he was going to vote for but he wanted the party to "take time to do it right".
- said we won't survive under this socialist government and he believed the right leader is Jason Kenney.
- was an oilfield worker whose son was a recent graduate in environmental science, his daughter was a nurse and his wife was a nurse. Conversations around his table were interesting but they all agreed about one thing: Rewarding free-enterprise and working ethically. It is important to get a free-enterprise conservative party.
- was born and raised in Alberta. She had worked in oil and gas for 25 years and was a grassroots conservative. She is voting to unite.
- was a long-time conservative who is concerned about property rights and what this socialist government will do with them. She is voting to unite.
- was born and raised in Alberta and just wants a fair shake and a government who represents the grassroots.
- says it is a nightmare in Alberta. She wants a strong socially responsible conservative government. She was listed on the Unity slate.
- supports Jason Kenney because unity needs to happen for everyone, even the progressive side. After they unite, we can then elect the right person to run the party and government.
I spoke with delegate hopeful number one afterwards because I was curious as to how he was going to make his decision. Unfortunately, he wasn't yet sure. He'd spoken with Fildebrandt about the unity plan previously but he just wasn't sure if this was the right way to go. He agreed that there needed to be something more concrete than "beat the NDP" but none of the plans put forward have any more than that yet. I asked if he'd attended any Wildrose events and he admitted he had not. I told him the atmosphere was much different. They are relatively excited, I said, and I think it's because they don't feel like they have anything to lose. The PC events, on the other hand, are mixed; some people are excited, others are not.
Delegate hopeful number one said his real worry was where the center mass would go; would they go center-left with the liberals? Center-right with the Alberta Party? Would they re-elect the NDP? He doesn't think they'll follow the united conservative party. I agreed. Think what you will about the Wildrose plus PC equals beat the NDP but people had a choice last election and they didn't choose Wildrose. Maybe they're counting on a lot of people "holding their noses" to vote Wildrose 2.0. Or, rather, praying for it.
D.
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