Crowfoot MP Kevin Sorenson may have to defend his MP status as the prospect of a 41st federal election is certain.
Sorenson has decimated his opponents in four consecutive elections beginning in 2000 when he was a member of the Canadian Alliance. He holds the riding’s top two records for largest margins of victory from 2004 and 2006.
“I’m very fortunate,” said Sorenson. “We live in a very Conservative riding and I’ve been blessed, I guess, that I’ve been able to be part of a good riding with a good leader.”
Canada needs the leadership of Stephen Harper and a strong commitment to fiscal conservatism, said Sorenson.
He welcomes competition in the riding and hopes that if an election is called, more Canadians than ever will head to the polls.
“If an election is called, everyone is going to go out and put forward their policy and ask for the public support,” he said. “That’s why I believe that Canada needs a majority government and a Conservative government.”
NDP candidate Ellen Parker knows how well Sorenson has performed. She’s challenged him the last three elections, failing to gain more than 4,000 votes.
“I think there’s change afoot in Alberta,” she said. “I think (NDP leader) Jack Layton has really been clear about what our party is looking for. We are seeking to get the best for Canadians.”
Crowfoot constituents are shaking their heads at the state of affairs, said Parker.
“People are concerned about their conservative values,” she said. “It’s basically time we had someone stand up for those values.”
“The (Conservative) track record is so obviously taking us in the wrong direction,” said Parker. “They’re not even in touch with what farmers and families are dealing with.”
The Green Party of Canada’s candidate is Shawna Hammond, who could not be reached for comment, while the Liberals have yet to announce a name.
Crowfoot encompasses a large slice of east-central Alberta, including part of north-east Rocky View County.
