Plans by the Wildrose and Progressive Conservative parties to convene so-called discussion groups to explore the possibility of a merger could be the first meaningful step on the road to the creation of a new right-wing political party in Alberta.
Or it could be the beginning of a long and divisive fight that could see one or both of the parties severely damaged and the Notley NDP reaping the rewards.
While the outcome of the unite-the-right initiative remains to be seen, the process itself marks a big political gamble for the Wildrose and the PCs.
Wildrose Leader Brian Jean and Jason Kenney each say their respective party members should have the final say on any merger, whatever form it takes.
"We reaffirmed our belief in consulting our grassroots members and ensuring they have the final say," said Jean. "The members are in charge. We also shared a desire to work in greater cooperation to oppose the NDP government.
"Our Wildrose team will continue to fan out across the province to consult members about the future of our party and provide regular updates on the work that is being done."
Kenney echoed Jean's comments, saying his party members will have the final say.
"I am encouraged to see that we (Jean and Kenney) share a common view about the next steps in the unity process," said Kenney. "Albertans expect us to park the egos, labels and resentments that have accumulated over a decade of division, and put Alberta first. Today (March 20, when Kenney and Jean held a closed-door meeting) was an important step forward in that direction."
With the next provincial election now two years away, Wildrose and PC members probably have enough time to put aside their differences and form a new right-wing party.
On the other hand, if the next two years are spent trying without success to bridge the gaps between the rival parties, the end result could be a battered and divided opposition facing a united, seasoned NDP incumbent.
- Singleton is the Mountain View Gazette editor
