Calgary Mountain View MLA joins Liberal leadership race

There are now three candidates in the race to be the next leader of the Alberta Liberal Party.

David Swann, the MLA for the riding of Calgary Mountain View, threw his hat into the ring Wednesday, saying the party needs to take a hard look at itself after a dismal showing in the last provincial election.

The Grits lost nearly half their seats in the legislature in the election on March 3, prompting Leader Kevin Taft to step down.

One issue, Swann said, is the name of the party.

" 'Liberal' in Alberta has some baggage from the federal Liberals. I know a lot of people in this province who would like a centrist party. Im committed to recognizing that there are weaknesses within the party and addressing them," he said.

"Over the next few years, Im also on the record as saying, that we may have to revisit the name of the Alberta Liberal Party."

Swann also said he doesn't think being from Calgary should be an obstacle for gaining support in Edmonton.

"I don't see that there needs to be a leader from any particular geographic point in this province. I think the question is: Is there is a man or a woman who has the commitment and the leadership ability to lead this province into the next century? We desperately need new leadership in this province," he said.

Swann, a former doctor, joins Calgary MLA Dave Taylor and former Edmonton MLA Mo Elsalhy in the contest.

Meanwhile Laurie Blakeman, MLA for Edmonton Centre, announced Wednesday she will not seek the Alberta Liberal leadership.

"After several weeks of serious consideration, I have decided against running for the party leadership," she said in a release.

"Considering the serious financial challenges facing the Alberta Liberal Party, it is clear to me that the next leader will have to excel at fundraising to get the party through the next year, to continue to pay down the debt, and put it into good shape before an election. We need someone who can raise money, and my strengths lie elsewhere."