All Options Needs to be on the table for change in Alberta

Progressive voters in Alberta feels disenfranchised. In every election for over a quarter of a century voters have repeatedly re-elected the conservatives into power. This election looks like it would be different. Stelmach was a rookie Premier who hasn't connected with the voters and was now shouldering the burden for inaction during Klein's last term. But Stelmach increased his seats and lowered the opposition parties to a few ridings.

Despair is not a strong enough word for Albertans who want change. The PC party has 9x more seats than their closest rival. Even if they struggle through the next term the opposition parties have to much ground up to defeat the conservatives in one term.

The problem for the opposition is that the PC party has been governing for so long and have no other party has been had the opportunity to govern. The Social Credit was in power almost 40 years ago and Liberals were in power in Alberta over 80 years ago. If change does occur the new government would have no governing experience and voters wouldn't no want to expect. Regardless if the economy is strong or not, new ideas are needed to rejuvenate this province to correct the staleness of the present government.

If the opposition parties want a new government they must be bold.

A unite the left coalition between the Liberals and New Democrats would have a combined vote total of 35%. If the merger works the federal conservative merger the 2 parties should be able to attract a higher voter total as one party than two separate parties. If the 2 parties are able to go over 40% the PC party would lose power or be reduced to a minority.

The other option if to replace the leaders. The Liberals are the strongest opposition party and have MLA's in Edmonton and Calgary. But historically changing the leader didn't change the parties fortunes. (except for Decore) The Liberals need to find an outsider to lead the party and yet still articulate the party's philosophy. Anne McLellan a former deputy PM would be an ideal choice. She has experience governing, she is visible, but she has baggage from the federal Liberal party. Another better option if finding a political rookie (an Alberta Obama) who lives in rural Alberta and who could topple the Conservatives in every region of Alberta.

Next election there will be new leaders and if there is will among the major opposition parties there could be a new strong united party to give Albertans who aren't afraid of change a creditable option.