Quote:
Originally Posted by Dion
If WRP doesn't do well in the by elections Danielle Smith could be in trouble as leader of the party. It's time for the WRP to put up or shut up.
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Don't get your expectations too high, Wildrose really only has a chance in 2 of the ridings.
Edmonton Whitemud - Went 60% PC, 16% WR last time.
Mandel is a former popular Mayor, current Health Minister, PC's win this easily. Wildrose win would be a massive upset.
Calgary Foothills - Went 53% PC, 33% WR last time.
If the PC's had a regular candidate running then it might be up for grabs. Prentice will win this one easily. Wildrose win would be a massive upset.
Calgary Elbow - Went 58% PC, 28% WR last time.
Obviously the Premier as a candidate gave the PC's a big win here last time. The Liberal vote looks like it went mostly to Redford, dropping from 39% in the 2008 to just over 5%. Doubt that the Liberal vote is going to go to Dirks, should see them voting for the home team this time.
PC's have only ever lost this riding one time, the LIB's won that by-election, they were the only real alternative party at the time. Dirks is a cabinet minister but will probably not get anywhere near the support of Redford or Klein with his controversial religious views. I think all 3 parties have a base between 25-30% here and could see any of the PC, WR or LIB's winning this riding. Maybe someone who lives there has a feel for how this will shake out.
Calgary West - Went 50% PC, 37% WR last time.
Don't know anything about the candidates but this one appears to be the best chance for a Wildrose win.