Political observers have pegged Education Minister and Athabasca-Sturgeon-Redwater MLA Jeff Johnson as a potential replacement for Premier Allison Redford, whose abrupt resignation last Wednesday became official Sunday night.
Johnson said Saturday he has yet to consider it.
“It's far too early at this point for me to speculate,” Johnson said. “I have a young family and they come first.
“I really haven't given it much thought. At this juncture I'm going to continue working hard as Education Minister."
Johnson said he commends Redford for her service.
“I would like to express my gratitude to Premier Redford for her commitment and service to the people of Alberta,” he said. “She worked hard on behalf of our province and always had the best interests of Albertans at heart.”
Johnson served under Redford as both Minister of Infrastructure and Education.
“Premier Redford and our PC government have delivered long-lasting results for families in Athabasca,” Johnson said. “From the new high school in town to the twinning of Highway 63, Premier Redford ensured that our community has what it needs to thrive. She balanced the budget and made important investments in local health care and education.”
Johnson’s press secretary, Dan Powers, stated the leadership race could take anywhere from four to six months.
“The party executive will meet on Monday to determine how to move forward,” Powers stated. “Traditionally, once the premier’s resignation takes effect, the interim premier who was selected at caucus on Thursday, Dave Hancock, will take over.”
Hancock will remain premier until a new leader is selected.
“In the past there has been a leadership race,” Powers said, explaining more would be known on Monday.
“Our PC government and new premier will continue building Alberta by investing in the things that matter most like transportation infrastructure, new schools and health care,” Johnson said.
