On Wednesday, nine Wildrose MLAs shocked the province, crossing the floor to join the Progressive Conservative Party.
Grande Prairie – Smoky MLA Everett McDonald says even though two members switched in November, the move was still unexpected.
“It was quite surprising, I think, to us, and we certainly had a lot of discussion as a caucus as to how this is going to look. I think we all have conservative values, although our parties differ in some ways.”
McDonald believes it will make for a stronger rural Alberta, as the MLAs who moved represent rural regions with a focus on Agriculture.
“There was only a handful of rural MLAs; we just got nine more… well 11. Kerry Towle is from Red Deer, Ian Donovan’s from Vulcan, so they certainly being that agriculture component and rural Alberta flavour back into the party.”
Everett argues the people who crossed likely felt they could contribute more by being on the government side.
The Wildrose is now left with five representatives.
