Kevin Taft’s keynote address to the recent ALP convention deals with “why” Alberta Liberals keep pushing for political change. As his farewell address, it is a moving and intelligent commentary on political life in Alberta for opposition supporters.
The health of democracy depends most of all on the commitment of members at the grassroots of political parties. It is the members who volunteer, provide funds and select the party leadership. With that in mind, a group of party members decided to strengthen the foundations of the Party by encouraging individual Albertans to get involved in building the party in each constituency. Please call Tyler Mudrey at the party office to find out more about this exciting initiative. Call (780) 414 -1124 or 1-800-661-9201.
Dear Alberta Liberal member:
Of all people, you know the importance of a healthy democracy.
We went into the last election with great candidates, the best policy, and a team that worked hard to present a choice to Albertans.
What we did not have was money. Our election warchest was, literally, empty.
That meant no polling or public opinion research, a very small campaign team, and almost no advertising to get our message out. It is no wonder many Albertans don’t see an alternative to this government, even though they want a change. And it is no wonder there was a record low voter turnout.
To all the volunteers, candidates, friends and supporters, thank you. To everyone who knocked on doors, put up signs, made phone calls, talked to friends, and did their best to make a difference, thank you. To everyone who gave freely of their time, money and passion because they believed in a better Alberta, thank you. To everyone who took the time to cast a ballot for their Alberta Liberal candidate, thank you.
We did make a difference, and we will continue to make a difference.
There is value in managing our province’s affairs in a way that will enable future generations to enjoy the same prosperity that we do. There is value in providing safety to the vulnerable. There is value in protecting our natural environment. There is value in the intangibles that make life beautiful.
Alberta Liberal Leader Kevin Taft spoke to more than 300 supporters in Edmonton at his leader’s dinner this evening.
His address to the crowd highlighted the Alberta Liberal action plan for health care, education, ethics and fiscal responsibility. Taft vowed to persist in holding Ed Stelmach to account as the leader of the Official Opposition in the Legislature.
“Losing the election does not mean the Alberta Liberals are wrong about the issues. We are right, and we need the courage and persistence to stay on those issues,” Taft said to applause.
“Our new and smaller caucus has important work to do, starting now, and we will apply our best efforts to getting that work done on behalf of Albertans.”