[Senator Clay Davis]

Originally Posted by First Lady

Again (I'm pretty sure I've stated this before) all candidates have had their bonds returned. Bonds are only being held on the unsuccessful nominee candidates, like my husband.

AND bonds have nothing to do with freedom of speech, but rather following the rules.

At a campaign stop in Calgary on Saturday, Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith confirmed the good conduct bonds of $1,000 paid by anyone who ran for a party nomination. If they behave, they get it back.



So far, only candidates who actually won the nominations have had the money paid back, Ms. Smith said, but they're also on a leash: They’re asked to clear any media requests with head office.

The quote is from the article in the Globe and Mail. I haven't read the "rules" but if there's a behavior clause in there, then while censoring free speech isn't in writing, its implied because of the broad nature of a behavior rule. Speaking out to the detriment of the party would no doubt be considered breaking the behavior rule.