Voters are going to make an interesting distinction in the Highwood this Monday.
Will it be the hometown guy or the big-move politician who wins the most votes?
The two front-runners in this constituency actually have a lot in common. They are the both in their early 40s and have a background in journalism. But that is where the similarities end.
Danielle Smith has been chosen to lead a revolt in this Province against a party that has been in power for 41 years. She chose to run in the Highwood, but has been bussing it around the Province trying to give Albertans a reason for a major upheaval. She’s been in the media spotlight and has not only gone head-to-head in local debates twice, she also spent three-days preparing for the leader’s debate.
John Barlow, who is on a break from working at this newspaper, is a well-known face in this community. He’s been spending every day trying to make sure those that haven’t seen him throw out the opening pitch at the Okotoks Dawgs Saskatchewan Day game, are getting to know him.
Barlow has been in an intensive door-knocking campaign since the election was called. He has said it will be the personal touch that will win him this election.
Smith on the other hand is banking on voter dissatisfaction and a five party platforms to make her Highwood’s first non-PC candidate in 41 years.
Will issues like government spending, bullying allegations and MLA pay topple the PCs? Or will Highwood residents look to what the ‘Tories have done for them over the past 40 years and be satisfied?
At the Okotoks debate there were some clear messages sent. The crowd guffawed when Barlow suggested electricity prices won’t skyrocket with power line legislation. The PCs property right bills also drew ire. But when Barlow suggested the Province needs to help out Okotoks with its water struggle, people were appreciative. Smith also felt some heat and drew some appreciative applause.
With only days left until the decision will be made, the race is still tight. On one day the polls can put Smith ahead of Redford, or the PCs ahead of the Wildrose.
It’s a nailbiter right down to the end and the only thing that is certain is if the forum, which brought more than 600 people to Okotoks, is any indication this election should bring more voters than ever out to cast their ballot.
Cast a vote this election, because this time every one will count.
