Local MLAs react to UCP caucus ousting

In early April, Loewen and Barnes were two of 15 MLAs, along with Lacombe-Ponoka’s Ron Orr and Red Deer-South’s Jason Stephan, to sign a joint statement saying the decision to reinstitute certain COVID-19 public health restrictions was the wrong move for the province.

rdnewsNOW reached out to both Orr’s and Stephan’s offices on Thursday for reaction to the caucus decision, but didn’t hear back.

However, Orr took to his Facebook page Friday morning to issue his support for the caucus decision to remove Barnes and Loewen.

“I am sorry to see two members of caucus voted out but I will not work for, or support, efforts to destroy the party or the leader from within. I will speak to party policy but will not divide what we worked so hard to unite,” said Orr, a former Wildrose Party member.

“I personally believe the premier has been more than fair and transparent with caucus. I also believe he is the leader God raised up for these times even though I don’t like these times any more than you do. I grieve for and will continue to try and help those who suffer under COVID and those who suffer under restrictions. Where I can help I will.”

Stephan chimed in late Friday, saying both Barnes and Loewen are his friends, and that Loewen served as caucus chair humbly.

“He sought to go the extra mile, cooking breakfasts in the early morning, and suppers late at night for his colleagues, supporting them in kindness. He is a servant leader,” said Stephan.

“When some Wildrose MLAs crossed the floor to join the Prentice PCs, Drew did not. He is the only remaining former member of the Wildrose Party from that time who is still an MLA. I admire Drew’s courage to stand by his convictions, his experiences and insights. I am grateful for the opportunity to meet Todd and Drew, to become personal friends with each of them. I look forward to continuing to serve with them.”

Premier Kenney said in a radio interview with CHED on Friday that he affirms the decision of his party’s caucus to have confidence in his leadership, adding that the government can’t be distracted by “personal agendas.”

Loewen and Barnes have both said they’ll continue to serve as MLAs, though as independents.

by Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Local MLAs react to UCP caucus ousting

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