My Challenge to the Premier
 
Democracy in our province is hurting.
 
Last election Alberta had the lowest voter turnout in Canadian history. There is almost universal cynicism towards elected officials and their intentions. And there is a prevailing feeling that the average Albertan has no voice or influence on the provincial issues that affect them personally.
 
We need democratic renewal in the worst way.
 
A couple of months ago I crossed the floor to Danielle Smith’s Wildrose Alliance – a party I feel will, if elected by Albertans, usher in an unprecedented wave of democratic reform and government transparency.
 
Although I am confident the vast majority of my constituents support my decision to cross the floor, several individuals (including Cabinet Ministers in Premier Stelmach’s government) have challenged me to step down and run in a by-election.
 
Initially, I chose not to do so because it would mean leaving my riding (the second most populous in Alberta) without representation for 6 months; and frankly, because I think an MLA should be able, on behalf of his constituents, to leave a party that is incompetent and failing those that MLA represents.
 
That said, I wish to issue a challenge to the Premier and his government should they feel so strongly about the need for a by-election.
 
I will agree to resign and hold a by-election under the following conditions:
 

• First, so we don’t waste taxpayer money, the Premier needs to announce the by-election on the same day as municipal elections to be held this fall (Oct 18th). I will resign my seat exactly one day prior to the Premier dropping the election writ (this date must also be mutually agreed to) so he can call the election under current by-election law;
  
  
• Second, in order that Alberta retains full Senate representation in Ottawa starting in 2011 when Senator Tommy Banks retires, the Premier must call for a Senate election on that same day (Oct 18th). This will also save taxpayer money. So far the Premier has refused to commit to Senate elections in the fall which means Albertans will be underrepresented starting in 2011 – this is unacceptable; and
  
  
• Lastly, we need to start addressing the democratic deficit in this province. I would therefore request the Premier fix an exact election date in 2012 (whatever date he wants is fine).
  

 
I’ll give the Premier until the end of spring session to take me up on this deal – so he’s got lots of time to think about it.
 
Hopefully, at least some good for our democracy (i.e. senate elections and fixed election dates) will come of this.