Incumbent United Conservative Party (UCP) MLA Nathan Cooper is hoping to be re-elected in the 2019 provincial election – but first he will have to win his party’s nomination in the riding.
Cooper announced on April 5 that he will again seek the UCP nomination in the Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills constituency.
The party’s nomination race in the riding has not yet been officially launched.
First elected as a Wildrose MLA in 2015, Cooper was a Carstairs town councillor before being elected to the legislature.
In a Gazette interview, Cooper said while he would welcome any challengers for his party’s nomination in the riding, he believes he is a well-qualified candidate.
“Obviously these nominations are open and a democratic process,” said Cooper. “People are welcome to get involved in the race if they want.
“It is my hope, should I be selected to continue to serve, that I will be able to take a leadership role after the next election.”
Cooper said he believes the UCP is the best option for the riding and is encouraging residents to consider giving the party their votes in 2019.
“Over the past term I have done what I can to be open and accessible to constituents and represent our region well,” he said. “Albertans can have a home in the United Conservative Party.”
The Gazette contacted the Liberal, NDP and Alberta parties to find out if they plan to run candidates in the riding in 2019. None returned calls at press time.
