She garnered almost five times the membership signatures needed — and she’s all paid up..United Conservative Party (UCP) leadership candidate Danielle Smith is officially in the race to become Alberta’s next premier..“Well guys, we did it. We passed the first hurdle. We got nearly 5,000 of you to sign my nomination papers. Thank you so much,” said a smiling Smith in a video posted on her campaign website..“But in addition to that, we have submitted the full $175,000 payment we need to make to enter into the leadership for the UCP.”.Party rules state leadership hopefuls are required to obtain 1,000 signatures, 200 each from five UCP districts..They were also required to pay a $175,000 entrance fee, $25,000 of that refundable if they complied with the code of conduct..Former finance minister Travis Toews was the first candidate to be officially approved on July 5 after presenting a nomination petition signed by 1,000 UCP members..At the time, Toews also submitted the first portion of his candidacy fee..Ten contenders announced their intentions to run to replace outgoing Premier Jason Kenney in the October 6 election..However, Amisk Mayor Bill Rock, unable to raise the hefty entrance fee, will likely soon drop out..“I think we’ll probably file the paperwork later this week or early next week. Lots of people reached out, but nobody with a cheque for $175,000,” said Rock Tuesday..READ MORE Rock out of the UCP race – maybe.Smith was appreciative of the broad support she's received..“So, thank you so much for your generosity and it just shows to me that our message is resonating,” said Smith..READ MORE Smith says she will act to end equalization payments from Alberta to Ottawa.“People want to be free again and more importantly, they want to be free from Ottawa and their economic sanctions.”.“Everybody wants a fair deal for Alberta and if we can't get it through negotiation, we’re going to fight for it."."And you know that I’m going to fight for you.”.“So, I want to keep going with the fight because this is going to be a long campaign. We still have three more months to go.”.Smith appealed to UCP members to buy memberships, donate, or volunteer on her campaign..“I sure need your help. We're going to continue to work hard and with your help and know that we can put Alberta first. Thanks so much for everything guys.”.Candidates have until July 20 to submit their signatures and fees..Other hopefuls include Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche MLA Brian Jean, Central Peace-Notley Independent MLA Todd Loewen; former cabinet ministers Rebecca Schulz and Rajan Sawhney; backbencher Leela Aheer; former Alberta Liberal leader Raj Sherman; and banker Jon Horsman.
