Alberta Politics - The Progressive Conservatives

Smoky Lake Signal Article No. 176
(June 8, 2011)

The race to fill Premier Ed Stelmach's shoes in Alberta's Legislature appears to be in low gear - after all, farmers are more worried about their crops, gardens and uncertain weather patterns - for city folk, their main concern appears to be what they're going to do for a summer holiday, if they can afford one.  I suspect things will start heating up when Mr. Stelmach announces the date of the PC convention.  At present there are six declared candidates for Premier Stelmach's job:
Ted Morton - a former finance minister and the likely front runner when comparing the group of six candidates.  Mr. Morton has suggested that he is by far the most capable candidate to deal with the threats of the growing Wildrose Alliance Party. 
Rick Orman - a former energy minister and a stalwart defender of the free market system.  Mr. Orman comes from southern Alberta, which is an important factor when it comes to dealing with the Wildrose Alliance.  Nevertheless, Rick Orman needs a lot more exposure in the north - Rick Orman could be the "sleeper" in the leadership campaign. 
Doug Horner - as a former education minister Mr. Horner brings a lot of understanding of rural Alberta.  If you ask me Mr. Horner is the "sweetheart" candidate for rural Alberta - the question that must be bugging him, can he garner the political support in the cities?  
Gary Mar - has held a number of cabinet jobs when he was in government, most notable, Minister of Health.  Mr. Mar will likely garner support in Edmonton but will have to contend with some negative baggage and that baggage is his responsibility for Alberta's current healthcare system.
Alison Redford - as former justice minister Alison is not as well known as the front runners but she has made some statements that have gained attention.  Most notably Alison Redford suggested last month that the PC's "property rights" legislation be suspended and the issue be reviewed with more consultation. 
Doug Griffiths - hasn't held any cabinet posts but has served three terms in the Alberta Legislature.  At 38, Doug Griffiths is the youngster of the group, and from what I can grasp Mr. Griffiths is appealing to the youth vote - a real long shot, but who knows and stranger things have happened. 

Political Update:
It is a little early in the leadership campaign to pass any firm judgment on who might be the best candidate to lead the Progressive Conservative Party and be Premier of Alberta.  Nevertheless, we all want to hear and see the candidates showing interest in the Smoky Lake area and available to answer questions regarding the future of our area and our province.  We were fortunate last week to have two candidates visit our area with other candidates expected in the weeks to come.  Last week Gary Mar and Doug Griffiths visited with a dozen or so Smoky Lakers at the Senior Citizens Drop-In Center and answered questions, drank coffee and ate donuts.  Doug Horner and Alison Redford are scheduled to come to Smoky Lake sometime in early July - haven't heard from the front runners, Ted Morton and Rick Orman.