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Local candidates gear up for election

Local candidates are getting their campaigns into full gear after today’s election call by Alison Redford.

In Fort McMurray–Wood Buffalo, this election’s only local incumbent Guy Boutilier says it’ll be a different kind of campaign running for a new party in the Wildrose.

“But it’s a young, energetic party,” says Boutilier. “And they respect listening to voters, and they also expect MLAs to not toe a party line, but take their voice to the legislature, and that’s something I’ve always done.”

His opponent, Mike Allen, says he’s confident in a win.

“There’s no question in my mind that the [Progressive] Conservative Party is going to form the next government,” Allen said. “And we just hope that we have a strong team going forward. I’m looking forward to being at the table where those decisions are made.”

In the new Fort McMurray–Conklin riding, Tory Don Scott says there are plenty of issues to take on.

“Challenges in education, healthcare, transportation, and making sure that we have the land available for shops and services that a community our size deserves,” he noted. “Making sure that we have the land available for housing; there’s many challenges but we have to make sure we start getting things done in this region.”

Ex-Mayor and Wildrose candidate Doug Faulkner says he’s used to these kinds of campaigns.

“I can remember way back when I first ran for mayor,” he recalled. “I was the underdog and not expected to win. And I feel that way today. And I am not a bit worried.”

This is the first election where Fort McMurray will send two MLAs to Edmonton.

Published March 26, 2012