The gloves came off in a hot hanger as the first UCP leadership debate took place in Medicine Hat..On Wednesday, seven candidates battled it out verbally in front of a shiny helicopter. The UCP leadership hopefuls are Leela Aheer, Brian Jean, Todd Loewen, Travis Toews, Danielle Smith, Rebecca Schulz and Rajan Sawhney. .During the debate there were many questions asked, apologies demanded, and comments clarified as the leadership hopefuls told the crowd who should be premier of Alberta to fight Justin Trudeau in Ottawa.."We need to say no to Ottawa," Loewen said..All UCP candidates claimed they are committed to fighting for Alberta. They are prepared to finally take action to remove the federal government's restrictions on Alberta oil..No clapping or booing was allowed, however, the crowd did clap and cheer for Smith when she demanded an apology from cabinet ministers who were involved in COVID-19 pandemic decisions..The open debate gave each candidate 45 seconds to answer questions from former Calgary city councillor Jeff Davison who was the moderator. The candidate then got to choose who they would like to debate..Several times during the debate Davison told the crowd there was no applause. The reaction seemed to only occur after Smith talking points.."It's getting hot in here," Davison said..Smith had more talking time throughout the entire course of the debate as she was a popular choice for other candidates to face off against. At one point Jean joked saying, "finally we are coming over to the right" poking fun at his position on stage..Jean slammed Smith's Alberta Sovereignty Act calling it a "fiscal fairy tale" while Sawhney said she didn't buy Smith's explanation for her recent comments on cancer. .This was the only scheduled debate before the crucial August 12 cutoff for members to sign up if they wish to vote in the leadership contest. The final debate is set for Aug. 30 in Edmonton..The Western Standard will host a debate of the frontrunners for the Alberta United Conservative Party (UCP) leadership election on August 9 in Calgary. The stage will feature Brian Jean, Danielle Smith, and Travis Toews. .You can buy your tickets HERE, but do so soon since seating is limited to 450. The event will be hosted by Rooftop YYC (in Calgary) at 4:30 pm.
