Kenney taking risks inviting Ford to Calgary rally: political scientist

CALGARY (660 NEWS) – It’s going to get attention, but is it the attention Jason Kenney wants?

The United Conservative Party leader is welcoming Ontario Premier Doug Ford to a Scrap the Carbon Tax Rally in Calgary Friday night.

“Alberta has very, very deep roots in populism. Left-wing to start with — it’s leaning right at the moment. So, that’s not particularly unusual,” Lori Williams, Mount Royal University political scientist, said.

But, Williams believes Kenney is taking some risks.

“It is going to get attention and support from people who are already paying attention and supporting him very strongly. It’s going to raise questions amongst those who are undecided, or perhaps their support for the UCP is somewhat tentative,” she said.

She said Ford was rubbing some people the wrong way, even before cutting seats on Toronto City Council.

“What’s a bit surprising is that Jason Kenney is bringing Doug Ford and not, let’s say, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe in, to participate in this rally because Doug Ford is a much more controversial figure,” Williams said.

She said Kenney should be trying to broaden his appeal, and she doesn’t see this helping.

The rally begins at 7 p.m. at the BMO Centre’s Palomino Room.

– with files from CityNews

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