Watch above: Premier Dave Hancock says, after more than 40 years with the PC party and 17 years as an MLA, this chapter is done. Tom Vernon reports.
EDMONTON – The man who became Alberta premier when Alison Redford resigned last spring is leaving politics.
Dave Hancock choked up as he spoke about the toll of political life on families.
“I knew over the past six months that there was a decision to be made but I was focused on the job,” Hancock explained.
Hancock said the time of his resignation is right, especially because of Jim Prentice’s recent election victory as premier-designate.
“The new premier has to step in and take over, so I’ve got to step aside,” said Hancock. “There’s no room for two premiers.”
Premier-Designate Prentice thanked Hancock for his time in provincial politics, particularly the six months he served as premier.
“As premier and leader he served as a steady hand for our caucus and our party during one of our most challenging periods,” said Prentice.
“I have always admired the Premier’s extensive understanding of public policy, and his passion for issues like education and children’s literacy which have bettered our province.”
Hancock, who is 59, is one of the longest-serving politicians in the Alberta legislature.
His five terms in office as the member for Edmonton-Whitemud span more than 17 years and include almost all senior cabinet posts, including education, health, justice and human services.
Redford named him deputy premier last year and the PC caucus chose him to take over when she resigned last March during a growing scandal over her expenses and leadership style.
He ran unsuccessfully to replace former premier Ralph Klein in 2005, but did not run in the leadership race won last weekend by Jim Prentice.
Hancock and his wife, Janet, have three children.
He’s not sure what he’ll do in the immediate future, but he said he’ll be available to give advice to any PC MLAs who seek it.
Files from The Canadian Press
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