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“In addition to these intimidation tactics, I watched long time, hard working members of our PC youth pushed aside from executive positions so one candidate could garner a few extra delegates. Under the guise of ‘wider youth engagement’ hundreds of youth with no previous ties to the party were bused in to vote – regardless of eligibility. Watching our dedicated PC youth candidates, some of whom logged thousands of kilometres this year volunteering for us, discarded like that, was heartbreaking.”

Kennedy-Glans issued a news release saying, “Right now, politics in Alberta is polarizing and there is limited opportunity for centrist voices to be heard. For that reason, and based on consultation with my volunteer team, I am withdrawing from the PC leadership race.”

Both pulled out just two days before nominations for the race close.

Kenney issued a statement expressing “disappointment” but avoiding any response to the serious complaints voiced by Jansen and Kennedy-Glans.

“I am disappointed to learn that MLA Sandra Jansen and former MLA Donna Kennedy-Glans have decided not to enter the Alberta Progressive Conservative leadership election,” wrote Kenney. “I extend my very best wishes to both Donna Kennedy-Glans and Sandra Jansen, and I hope that they will continue to contribute to our public life.”

There are still four others in the race – all men.

Kenney, MLA Richard Starke and Calgary lawyer Bryon Nelson have submitted their nomination papers – but former MLA Stephen Khan has yet to do so.

The race will culminate with a delegated leadership convention on March 18.