As a life-long historian, it is always fascinating to observe and be part of the making of history in Red Deer and Alberta. A generation of one-party government (i.e. 44 years) in Alberta has now come to an end. Red Deer has elected not one but two New Democrat MLAs for the first time. We live in very interesting times — events about which much will be written in the coming weeks, months and years.
I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Kim Schreiner and Barb Miller on their victories in Red Deer North and South. They have some fascinating, if somewhat challenging, times ahead of them as they serve our community.
I would also like to congratulate Norm Wiebe, Ben Dubois, Deborah Checkel, Darcy Mykytyshyn, Buck Buchanan, Christine Moore, Krystal Kromm, Serge Gingras, William Berry and Patti Argent on their campaigns. It takes a lot to put your name forward for public office and spend 28 gruelling days on the campaign trail. For that, we all owe you a debt of sincere gratitude.
Thank you very much to everyone, candidates, campaign workers, and those who went out to vote. In particular, I would like to especially thank the many people and volunteers who supported me in my campaign. I deeply appreciated your dedication and support.
In conclusion, the voters have spoken and we all respect that decision. To do otherwise is to undermine one of the very basic tenets of democracy. Red Deer is our home and I know we will all continue to work hard and do our best to make sure our community is an even better place in the future.
Michael Dawe
Liberal Party, Red Deer North