Funny, I Don't Remember Saying I Wanted That.

I've said that all too often lately, usually following some election promise that some party leader said "Albertans want." I don't recall asking for my vote to be bought with surplus dollars. I don't recall asking for another empty building for health care. I don't recall asking for tax increases. Yet the leaders of the Big Four parties insist that "Albertans want" these things. For years I've been hoping that a party would emerge that actually LISTENS to what I want. I've been following politics in Alberta and Canada since high school, only to be disappointed.

I can't say that about the Progressive Conservatives. All they've done is muzzle some people.

I can't say that about the Wildrose Party. Their leader, on national television, suggested that by "consulting Albertans", what she meant was "consulting my party's members".

I can't say that about the Liberals. Their leader continues to come up with pie-in-the-sky solutions to actual problems, and therefore loses a lot of credibility.

I can't say it about the New Democrats. The party cant even get a candidate from my area to run in this constituency.

So what is a guy to do? With the future interests of my boys at heart, I have chosen to join the Alberta Party, and see what it can do in Highwood. I have chosen to join a party that seeks to collaborate and consult with Albertans from all walks, not just those who agree with my beliefs.

The Alberta Party did exactly that, with a process dubbed "The Big Listen". They actually went to average Albertans in their homes, corner coffee shops and even pubs to find out what they really want and need. They then went to specialists and experts to learn ways to implement the ideas. Out of it came a platform actually built on Albertans' needs and wants. For the first time ever, I actually agree with a political party and its platform in its entirety.

And I'm not the only one. The Alberta Party has been setting records for engagement throughout this campaign. This party is going to mean something this election. It will do even more in the next.

If all this sounds interesting to you, I invite you to check the party out. You can do so on their website, or you can visit their table which will be set up at the debate tonight.

I know the Alberta Party has no candidate right now, and so our efficacy in Highwood is limited this time. However, we can still ask our candidates right now to follow the Alberta Party lead. Listen to your constituents. Act on their behalf. Work collaboratively and creatively with each other to make a better Alberta, not just for you, but for our future.

If you see that a candidate in Highwood is going to do that, give them the best support you can give. Vote for them.