‘Unifier’ Jean vows to shun mudslinging in UCP race
Brian Jean isn’t interested in mudslinging during the United Conservative Party leadership race.
During his campaign launch and policy announcements early this week, and again when speaking with the Journal on Thursday, the former Wildrose Party leader’s language has tended toward sunshine and positivity — aside from when he talks about the NDP.
“I’m a unifier, I’m not a divider,” Jean said Thursday. “Most people wouldn’t consider me to be a natural politician. That’s not who I am. I’m not going to play dirty, that’s not at all my modus operandi.”
Further, he doesn’t think Albertans will put up with it.
But it’s all part of politics, as evidenced by the NDP caucus digging up past comments made by UCP interim leader Nathan Cooper the day after he was chosen by fellow conservative MLAs for the job.
The NDP this week demanded Cooper’s resignation over antiabortion comments he made in 2009.
Cooper said his views have changed over the last decade.
Jean said Cooper has his full support as interim leader, calling him “a good friend and a great Albertan.”
“Ten years ago, people had different views than they do now about a number of things, and I think he’s been clear — that was his past, he’s focused on the future, and he’s going to treat all Albertans equally,” Jean said.
Cooper and his interim leadership team will have to get the UCP prepared for the fall session.
Jean is adamant Cooper is up for the task, pointing to the Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills MLA’s time as Wildrose house leader.
“He’s done an extraordinary job and has been a significant piece of (Wildrose) success. That’s why I trust him so much,” Jean said.
Cooper and his team will remain impartial in the leadership race, which currently includes Jean and Calgary lawyer Doug Schweitzer.
Strathmore-Brooks MLA Derek Fildebrandt hasn’t decided whether or not he’ll run.
Progressive Conservative Leader Jason Kenney is expected to announce his leadership bid Saturday.