In a video filmed by a UCP youth supporter, Kenney appears to be mocking the NDP candidate.

ALBERTA (660 NEWS) — The UCP is on the defense over comments about an NDP candidate in Airdrie-Cochrane from their leader Jason Kenney that he made during a fundraiser.

In the 45 second Instagram story posted by the Director and Youth VP for UCP Airdrie-Cochrane, Kenney appears to mock NDP candidate for Airdrie-Cochrane Steve Durrell saying: “The NDP acclaimed their star candidate to take on Peter Guthrie, a [sic] 19-year-old [laughter].”

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It’s unclear what word Kenney says before 19-year-old but a UCP spokesperson denies Kenney referred to Durrell as gay.

Jason Kenney called me a 19 year old last night – as an insult I guess?

1) I’m 29

2) That’s the age he was when he was first elected

3) I’ll take young people getting active in politics over the #OldBoysClub any day #ableg pic.twitter.com/ojZhYphFgH — stevedurrell (@stevedurrell) February 1, 2019

In an emailed statement from UCP spokesman Matt Solberg, he offers an explanation for the comments.

“Prior to the event, Jason was informed that the NDP candidate in the riding was 19. Clearly that was incorrect, and no offence was intended. He was simply highlighting the gulf of experience between the local United Conservative candidate Peter Guthrie, a long-time resident of Cochrane with a background in engineering, business and ranching, compared to the NDP’s acclaimed candidate…” Solberg stated.

Editor’s Note: The article has been updated to reflect the position of the person who posted the video.