I think the NDP botched Calgary. Basically they're so far behind in nominating candidates and getting things going that in those ridings in particular they've made the Liberals the de facto choice for a progressive voter. Calgary Centre is a prime example; progressives recognize that the vote split cost them before and aren't going to make that same mistake again. I don't know if the NDP has nominated a candidate yet, but it's obvious that Kent Hehr has been working hard for a year there.
Then you look at Confederation where Matt Grant has been door knocking and fundraising for a year or longer and the NDP just nominated a candidate. They're just behind the eight ball already.
The thing is its more than just a candidate nomination. It means fundraising, volunteer recruitment, signs, brochures and everything else are delayed. It's not insurmountable, but a big blow for a party that was hoping to capitalize on the provincial win.
|