By Canadian Press

No good outcome for premier in northern Alberta byelection, say political scientists

Mar 14, 2022 | 9:35 AM

Political scientists say there will be one clear loser in the Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche byelection tomorrow, but it’s not any of the candidates.

No matter who wins, they say Alberta Premier Jason Kenney faces an unfavourable outcome.

That’s because all three candidates in the constituency are opposed to Kenney’s leadership.

Mount Royal University political analyst Lori Williams says she expects longtime politician Brian Jean to win the seat for the United Conservative Party, and he will be anything but united with Kenney.

Jean’s entire candidacy has been about removing Kenney as leader.

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But Williams says it could still be difficult for Kenney if another candidate wins.

Paul Hinman, leader of the Wildrose Independence Party, and New Democratic Party candidate Ariana Mancini are also contesting the seat.

Political scientist Duane Bratt, who’s also with Mount Royal University, says the best scenario for Kenney, though unlikely, could be an NDP win.

Bratt says he could then rally his party around the idea that infighting could help the NDP win the next provincial election.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 14, 2022.

The Canadian Press