Alberta pork producer Jurgen Preugschas doesn’t believe the debate between Alberta’s four party leaders will be studied by future political science students.
“In terms of a debate, I don’t think it was a classic,” said Preugschas.
But the 90 minute televised event before Alberta’s March 3 election did solidify the Mayerthorpe farmer’s vote.
“It made it very clear I certainly wouldn’t want any of the opposition leaders to be in,” he said.
Progressive Conservative leader Ed Stelmach, Liberal leader Kevin Taft, New Democratic leader Brian Mason and Wildrose Alliance leader Paul Hinman took part in the Feb. 21 debate. With no seat in the legislature, Alberta Green party leader George Read was not invited to attend, but he posted his answers to the debate questions on YouTube.
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“In a way I was really disappointed in the opposition. All they were interested in was attacking Stelmach and providing absolutely no solutions or anything,” Preugschas said.
“I was happy to see how Stelmach handled himself with the continued attacks on him.”
Stelmach is seeking his first mandate from voters since taking over from Ralph Klein in 2006. The Progressive Conservatives have held office since 1971.
The leaders were given 45 seconds to answer questions from a panel of reporters and 30 seconds of rebuttal followed by free debate. The debate was launched with a question about how Stelmach planned to differentiate himself from 37 years of provincial Tory rule.
“I’m a new leader bringing fresh ideas,” said Stelmach, who has been part of the Conservative government for 13 years, but said he’s taken “bold steps” to create change since becoming premier.
Opposition leaders weren’t buying Stelmach’s attempt to distance him from the government.
“We’ve changed the head, but the body has remained the same,” said Hinman.
Wild Rose Agricultural Producers chair Humphrey Banack listened to the leaders’ debate on the radio while driving between agricultural meetings.
He couldn’t pick a clear winner in the debate, but felt Hinman came through as the most confident speaker.
“I was surprised with Paul Hinman. I thought he spoke very well. He was very believable in what he said. Paul Hinman had a voice that could captivate you and motivate you,” said Banack.
What he didn’t hear was a single word about agriculture from the leaders, including the two farmers on the panel: Stelmach and Hinman.
“I had hoped you’d hear something about agriculture or rural during the debate,” said Banack.
The leaders sparred over health care, day care, the environment, auto insurance premiums and their leadership style.
The debate didn’t change Banack’s vote, but he was hoping to hear something beyond rehashed election campaign promises.
Preugschas wasn’t as impressed with Hinman.
“What really surprised me was how weak was the Wildrose Alliance leader. I didn’t know very much about him and I expected someone stronger with better ideas,” said Preugschas.
Hinman was the lone Alliance member elected in the 2004 election. Only weeks before the latest election, two right-wing groups merged: Alberta Alliance and Wildrose Party of Alberta. The new party hopes to increase its support, especially in rural Alberta.
Preugschas said the lack of an agriculture or forestry discussion was more telling of the four city reporters who asked the questions than a reflection of the leaders.
“What surprised me was the lack of good questions.”
Three Hills farmer Don Boles was shocked none of the leaders said a single word about agriculture.
“I didn’t watch it. I endured it. It was quite a disappointment to any farmer.”
Boles said all the leaders seemed to get along and would all be assets to the legislature.
“I would prefer to see all these guys in the legislature,” said Boles, who believes Alberta would be best served with a minority government.
“I think they have the interests of Albertans at heart and would all do well in the legislature.”
Boles thought Taft was the most personable leader and his folksy charm was evident.
After 90 minutes of debate, Boles is still one of the 25 percent of Alberta voters who are undecided.
Tom Jackson of Killam planned to watch the debate, but couldn’t at the last minute.
He said Stelmach is still the strongest leader and has done a good job guiding the province.
“I don’t sense a real restless public that feel the Conservatives should be turfed.”
