In a surprise announcement, Alberta premier Ed Stelmach said today he would not be running in the next provincial election.
“I have determined that after 25 years of public service, I am not prepared to serve another full term as premier, he told a news conference at the Alberta legislature.
Stelmach became premier in December 2006 and led the Progressive Conservative government to a majority government in 2008.
In a statement, Stelmach said since the New Year he has asked the members of the Conservative caucus about their intentions for the next provincial election.
“I have been asking these good men and women to make a minimum commitment of five years. It is a commitment to serve Albertans and those in public office know that this service comes with a personal sacrifice.
“As I have been having these discussions I have also been reflecting on my own commitment to serve beyond the next election,” he said.
Stelmach did not say when he would step down, but his successor doesn’t need to go to the polls until March 2013.
“Until I provide the formal notice of intent to resign, I will continue to govern to fulfill commitments I made in the last general election,” he said.
Stelmach has never had an easy time as premier. Shortly after taking office, prices of oil and natural gas plummeted and Alberta’s energy-based economy never recovered.
His term in office has also featured unpopular cuts and growing deficits.
During his announcement, the former agriculture minister warned the next election campaign would focus on personality and U.S. style negative, attack politics.
“This type of U.S. style wedge politics is coming into Canada, and it comes at our peril,” he said, referring to the right wing Wildrose Alliance Party, which has gained a foothold in Alberta politics.
Wildrose leader Danielle Smith said Stelmach’s announcement is a sign the Conservative party is in “complete disarray” and believes he was forced out by unhappy members of his caucus.
Alberta NDP leader Brian Mason said Stelmach is leaving a party with deep divisions, but changing leaders won’t make a difference.
“After too many flip flops and broken promises, he increasingly lost public support,” said Mason.
