Taking a look at NDP’s victory
The province of Alberta was in the national spotlight last week – many Canadian citizens were eagerly glued to their televisions to see the results of the 2015 vote. It’s safe to say, that no one could have predicted the final results.
Alberta made history. By voting in the NDP, citizens now have the opportunity to express the urgent desire for change, and ultimately, an entirely new political landscape.
Previously, the Conservative party held the record for the longest-serving provincial government, holding power for nearly 43 years in Alberta. Outgoing PC leader Jim Prentice underwent heavy public criticism for his proposed policy changes regarding Alberta’s economic infrastructure, ultimately leading to the sharp decrease of voters in his favour. That being said, the sudden shift in political thinking after 43 years is a clear indication that a change had to be made among the citizens of Alberta.
Not only did the NDP claim its largest victory ever in Alberta, the rising party also managed to win a majority government. With about 40 per cent of the popular vote, there is no doubt that Alberta has shed itself from its conservative ties in favour of the promising NDP political platform.
Rachel Notley, the leader of the NDP and Alberta’s new premier, urges Albertans to embrace the big changes that are coming. In a news release posted on Alberta’s NDP website, Notley emphasized the importance of change and the responsibilities that comes alongside new leadership.
“Albertans have voted for change. One of the changes they voted for is a new kind of respect and a new relationship with their government,” said Notley.
The newly elected Premier, however, was quick to dismiss the idea that creating change and progression would be easy. After being known as Canada’s most conservative province, it has become apparent that Albertans have placed their trust in the NDPs.
“Albertans across this province have told me they are tired of old, entitled approaches that leave them out of conversations about their livelihoods, about their services, about their families,” said Notley. “Whether you are a business leader, a union leader, a municipal leader, someone who leads in civil society, or a just plain Albertan – the Legislature belongs to you; the government belongs to you, and you will be treated with respect.”
Notley’s family-oriented outlook and strong political tact speaks volumes about Alberta’s previous leadership.
The 2015 provincial elections also saw a solid voter turnout with 58.1 per cent the highest it has been since 60 per cent in 1993. Under the guidance of Rachel Notley and the NDP, Alberta’s political landscape has forever changed – demonstrating a crucial and much needed change from the economic instability created by previous governments.
Photo by Dave Cournoyer via CC BY-SA 2.0/Modified