Michelle Rempel Garner withdraws from UCP leadership race

Michelle Rempel Garner has made the decision to step down from the United Conservative Party’s leadership race due to the present UCP caucus dynamic.

“From what I’ve heard over the last few weeks, there is a significant level of hurt and uncertainty in the UCP caucus team.”

“The UCP has done a lot of good work and has put the province on solid footing. Many members of the team have worked really hard and achieved a lot of good things,” she explained in a statement.

“But in both parties (federal Conservatives and provincial UCP), there have also been squabbles that have erupted in the pages of national media, public meltdowns, nearly missed physical fights, coups, smear jobs, leaked recordings and confidential emails, lack of consensus on critical issues, caucus turfing, people harassed to the point where they resign roles, and hours-long meetings where members have been subjected to hours of public castigation. There have been heated exchanges to get basic concerns addressed, unjustified insularity in decision making, shunnings, exclusionary cliques and more.”

A poll released Wednesday showed that Garner was the front runner in the race and could have seriously challenged the NDP in next year’s general election.

However, Garner says she has to consider that even if she wins the leadership contest, she might not get the chance to try to fix all the caucus issues before a general election.

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“I’m also extremely optimistic that there are incredible opportunities that lie ahead for Albertans and for the next Premier. I’m excited to fight for these things to come to pass.” Garner said. “I’m not going anywhere and intend to reoffer as MP.”