Article content continued

However, she also suggested that not everyone is amused.

“I did see someone comment that it might be one of the reasons why women are dissuaded from entering politics, and I think there might be a valid point there.”

She said she didn’t know how long it will take to get the bus fixed. She also didn’t know the cost, though it is expected to be several thousand dollars.

“These stories continue to reinforce stereotypes about women… they tend to focus on women’s’ bodies instead of focusing on what women bring to the table in terms of their competencies,” said Clare Beckton, executive director of Carleton University’s Centre for Women in Politics and Public Leadership in Ottawa.

“It can and does make women think twice about running (for office).”

Beckton said it’s “highly unlikely if this was a male candidate that they would be making these kinds of comments” and that “sexism continues to exist” for women who want to become involved in politics.

“The media itself is as much responsible for this kind of behaviour — the media continues to write stories and support stories of this kind,” Beckton said.

The bus was unveiled Monday at the legislature during a Wildrose campaign event to advertise the party has found candidates to run in all 87 ridings. Smith vowed Monday to run a “campaign of ideas” while staying away from personal attacks during the upcoming provincial election.

Smith herself noted on Twitter that a redesign was in order:

https://twitter.com/#!/ElectDanielle/status/181860539587244034

Edmonton Journal