Stephen Mandel not pursuing Alberta PC leadership

EDMONTON – Former Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel says he will not pursue leadership of Alberta’s Progressive Conservative party.

Mandel sent several tweets Wednesday morning in which he cited family reasons for his decision.

https://twitter.com/SMandel_yeg/status/456429595718193153

https://twitter.com/SMandel_yeg/status/456429991945711616

There were rumors Mandel would seek the position.

Wednesday morning, Mandel released the following statement:

“Over the last several weeks I have spoken with people all across Alberta about challenging the opportunity to lead the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta.  

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“I believe strongly that Alberta needs a strong, renewed progressive and conservative party.  I am humbled by the number of people who indicated their belief that I could play a leadership role in creating the change our Party and Province needs.    

“This is not a small or easy decision.  I have had to consider the interests of my family and all parts of my life against the responsibility and commitment that a return to politics would involve.

“I have been blessed by a strong and successful public life.  I am proud of my record and achievements, but I do not believe now is the time to start another political journey.  Therefore, I will not be part of the upcoming PC leadership race.

“I wish the very best to all those who do step forward in this campaign and in the very important work of ensuring our Party is positioned to serve the best interests of all Albertans.” 

In March, Alison Redford’s former Chief of Staff, Stephen Carter, ranked Mandel as the top contender, but warned the party would be in tough to win the next election because “Southern Alberta doesn’t know who he is, and rural northern Alberta doesn’t like him.”

Stephen Mandel was Edmonton’s mayor for nine years before making the decision not to run in the 2013 municipal election.

Former Alberta municipal affairs minister Ken Hughes is the only declared candidate so far in the race that will be decided in a vote this September.