Monday, September 12, 2011

Why I like Doug Griffiths for PC Party Leader & Premier of Alberta

The Progressive Conservative Party of Alberta needs a makeover, and I think Doug Griffiths is the guy to do it.

I think the PC party needs to reinvent itself, and if this doesn’t happen I fear it may be one election away from not forming the government.  I am not hearing enough new from the other candidates to make me think this reinvention will happen in a meaningful way.  I am, however, hearing a very refreshing message from Doug Griffiths.

Griffiths understands communities, and understands that we are all part of the broader community that is Alberta.  This is evident by his work with rural communities and his presentation and book “Thirteen ways to Kill Your Community”.

Griffiths understands the financial situation Alberta finds itself in, and the need to change things.  Consider that managing the finances of our Province is really no different than managing your own household.  You simply can’t spend more than you earn; you need to plan for improvements and extraordinary income (royalty revenue) needs to be treated differently.

Griffiths is not afraid to have discussions about previously off-limits subjects.  For example he has long supported a discussion about revenue generation, and has mused about a sales tax to replace income taxes.  The media and others have painted him as the boogieman for even bringing this up which in my mind is terribly unfair.  Personally I would far prefer to be taxed on what I consume rather than what I earn.  Regardless of one’s preference, why would you be afraid to have this discussion?      

Griffiths appears to have engaged the younger demographic in a big way, and that is vital for the long term viability of the PC Party.  More than ever there is a lot of choice for you if you are an Alberta voter and competition is fierce to attract the youth audience.  It is not hard to understand that, without extending a welcome to the younger generation, any organization is doomed to failure.

So there you have it.  I think Doug Griffiths is an excellent choice, and I encourage you to learn more about Doug, and about the other candidates as well, before forming your opinion.

It is a rare event to have the opportunity to cast a vote for the next Premier, and regardless whether you agree with my selection it is imperative that you exercise this opportunity.  Voting takes place around Alberta on September 17 and a second ballot, if necessary, will be on October 1.

Let me know what you think.

Cheers,

Bud James