Brian Jean dropped by Pyrogy Fest in Glendon to discuss his platform with residents as he vies for the leadership of the United Conservative Party (UCP).
The stop, on Saturday, Sept. 2, was part of the former Wildrose leader's cross-province tour.
“Are you kidding? How could I not stop for pyrogies, I love pyrogies. But this is really about meeting people, answering their questions, and making sure they feel like they're a big part of the process moving forward, because they are,” said Jean.
To help kick off the event, Jean addressed the crowd on key issues he hopes to tackle should he win the race for UCP leader.
During his short speech he shared his views on healthcare, education, and a few other ways he hopes to improve life in Alberta.
“I've been sharing my policy ideas on education and healthcare, and what we can do as accountability and transparency. Frankly, it's all about making a better Alberta. I think that's about sharing ideas and talking about those ideas to improve the quality of life here,” detailed Jean.
For the most part, he used the opportunity to speak with residents he normally wouldn't get the chance to.
Elimination of the carbon tax and equalization were the talking points on the forefront of residents' minds, and Jean had no problem doubling down on previous promises.
“They certainly want me to eliminate the carbon tax as soon as possible and I promise I will do that within the first 30 days. People also want me to challenge Ottawa on equalization and making sure we get our fair share in Alberta, and I'm going to do that too,” he said.
Over the course of the tour, Jean has made a habit of meeting with what he calls, regular everyday Albertans. He estimates having met with nearly 15,000 people in the last few months.
The conversations have garnered ideas, and have helped shape the way Jean will prioritize issues in parliament.
“They're my bosses. If you don't know what your boss wants, how can you provide it? Truly the people of Alberta should be in charge of the political process and the policy they get. If they have the opportunity to talk to me, their instructions will be brought forward,” said Jean.
Leading up to the election, he'll continue to tour, meeting with as many people as he can. So far, the tour has helped Jean get a better view of what's important to Albertans across the province.
“In just the last few months we've had the chance to meet with 10,000 to 15,000 people; just regular Albertans in small towns and big cities across the province. It's been humbling to meet them and to understand what they want me to prioritize.”
Members of the UCP will be able to elect the new leader of the party online or over the phone during a three-day period from Oct. 26 to 28.
Along with Jean, so far former PC leader Jason Kenney, former Wildrose party president Jeff Callaway, and Calgary lawyer Doug Schweitzer have entered the race.
