EDMONTON – An Alberta Progressive Conservative MLA who crossed the floor twice says he won’t run in the next election. Rob Anderson, who represents the riding of Airdrie, announced the news on his Facebook page late Monday night.
“My journey in politics has been an incredibly fulfilling experience and I’m proud of my record and humbled by the opportunity my constituents have given me to serve.
In turn, I believe it is my responsibility to be forthright with my constituents and with my Caucus colleagues about my intentions for the future.” -Excerpt from Facebook post
Anderson was elected as a Tory in 2008 but defected to the Wildrose in 2010. He was re-elected under the Wildrose in 2012, serving as a vocal member of the Official Opposition.
In December, he and eight Wildrose MLAs, including then leader Danielle Smith, crossed the floor to join the governing Progressive Conservatives.
READ MORE: Wildrose move: one of Canada’s biggest political defections
In an editorial published Monday in the Calgary Herald, Anderson explained the reason for his decision to re-join the PCs, saying it had to do with Jim Prentice becoming the party leader.
“Frankly, I saw no benefit to my constituents in spending my remaining time as their MLA in opposition hammering this premier for implementing the exact policies I’ve long advocated and argued for,” the editorial stated.
Anderson’s Facebook post says that he met with Premier Jim Prentice before Christmas to let him know he wouldn’t be running again.
Anderson says he and his wife will purse careers in the private sector while spending more time with their four sons, aged five to 10.
“Serving as the MLA for Airdrie (and Airdrie-Chestermere prior to 2012) has been one of the greatest experiences and honours of my life. So many of my most cherished friendships and memories stem from my time in this role.
I will spend my remaining time as MLA continuing to work on establishing 24-hour health care services in Airdrie, improving conditions for seniors at Airdrie’s Bethany Care Centre, and assisting Premier Prentice with what will be a very challenging and important budget during a time of great economic uncertainly for our province.” -Excerpt from Facebook post
With files from The Canadian Press
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