Wildrose Leader Brian Jean will kick off a town hall tour July 15 in Airdrie, laying out what Jean said is a vision for the future of the party.
“We’re going to be sharing our (plans) for efficient government, strong government and safe communities,” he said. “We want to propose a principled alternative to the NDP government. We’re very excited about starting it in Airdrie.”
Jean launches the summer tour as a renewed unite-the-right campaign – spearheaded by federal Conservative MP Jason Kenney – has provoked questions surrounding who would lead a consolidated provincial conservative party.
“I’ll work with anybody that my members want to work with. The (Progressive Conservative) party will be involved in a very divisive battle,” Jean said. “It’s clear they have some divisive opinions in that party. I’ve talked to many of the candidates there, and there are a lot of different opinions. But it would be wrong to speculate on the leadership of a third party.”
Kenney launched his bid for the leadership of the Progressive Conservative party in Calgary July 6. Despite the renewed conversation, Jean said a conservative merger was not a new idea.
“If you remember, I’ve been pushing that agenda for almost a year,” he said. “We will always welcome all conservatives.”
In addition to party leader, Jean serves as MLA for the Fort McMurray-Conklin provincial electoral district. Jean’s home was one of many that burned down during the May wildfires in Fort McMurray.
“I don’t think it’s going to be very simple or easy to move on. But the people are very hardworking and resilient,” he said. “But the mental health needs for those who fled this horrific scene is going to be very, very demanding. I am going to be pushing the government every step of the way.”
Jean’s party has opposed recent initiatives introduced by the NDP, including the carbon levy and minimum wage increase. Jean called those policies “a risky agenda.”
“All of these things are coming together at a time where it couldn’t be worse for the people of Alberta,” Jean said. “This is not the time.”
The Airdrie town hall will run from 6 until 8 p.m. at Apple Creek Golf Course. Those interested can RSVP on wildrose.ca
Jean said as part of the town hall, the Wildrose constitution, principles and party specifics will be available for review.
“People can have the opportunity to see for themselves what our policies are,” he said. “Maybe they want to change those policies, who we are and what Wildrose stands for. Albertans will know where Wildrose stands.”
