There is no longer a race for the UCP nomination in the Grande Prairie provincial riding. Her only opponent John Lehners has dropped out, giving Tracy Allard the party’s nomination.
In a Facebook post, Lehners explains he decided to withdraw after he was involved in a serious vehicle rollover on a highway north of High Prairie on July 20. He is out of hospital and recovering.
“During the last week and a bit, I have not been able to take on the necessary work of a potential candidate. Based on this, and the impact that such an incident has on your perspective and reassessment of values, I have decided it is best that I withdraw my nomination for your local UCP candidate.”
Lehners wishes Allard all the best in the upcoming election, saying he appreciates the support he’s gotten in his campaign, but noting his end goal was for a “brighter future” for Alberta.
UCP leader Jason Kenney has congratulated Allard on her nomination in the urban Grande Prairie riding. He commends her for more than 25 years of business experience, which includes owning local Tim Hortons restaurants
“Tracy embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that has come to define our province and its people. Tracy is a committed community volunteer and mom of three children who has worked hard to leave a strong Alberta for the next generation. This dedication and drive will be a huge asset to our team as we work to restore the Alberta Advantage and get our province back on track.”
Kenney also says he’s sorry to learn Lehners quit the race due to his accident, and wishes him well in his recovery.
We have reached out to Allard for comment.
