With tens of thousands of Newfoundlanders working in northern Alberta’s oil projects, their votes Oct. 14 have the potential to change the election complexion in several ridings.
Most are centred in the Fort McMurray area, often dubbed Newfoundland’s second largest city. Many more are in the Westlock-St. Paul riding south of Fort McMurray. 
Will these Newfoundland workers change the political dynamic that has seen Conservatives win those northern Alberta seats by massive majorities?
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Newfoundland Conservative premier Danny Williams hopes so.
In a political blood feud with prime minister Stephen Harper over an oil royalties and equalization dispute, he is urging Canadians and Newfoundlanders across the country to vote ABC – anything but Conservative.
Westlock-St. Paul Conservative Brian Storseth said he is not worried.
“I have many Newfoundlanders working in my riding and they come here because they recognize the Alberta advantage and the benefits of living here,” he said. “Danny Williams is premier of Newfoundland, not Alberta. The Newfoundlanders I have met here think for themselves and are not here to be told how to think. I encourage him to come here to campaign and to see for himself.”
