The United Conservative Party’s candidate will be Mike Derry, a lifelong Calgarian, business owner and community volunteer with extensive experience in Alberta’s oil and gas sector.
“Mike knows Calgary, understands the challenges facing families and businesses, and has spent years giving back to his community,” said Premier Smith, Leader of the United Conservative Party. “He will be a strong voice for Calgary-Shaw and help us keep taxes low, keep communities safe and grow an economy that continues creating good jobs. I’m proud to have Mike on our team and I’m asking the people of Calgary-Shaw to elect him on September 14.”
Derry and his wife are raising their two sons in Calgary. He has been actively involved in the community for years, particularly through youth sports, education programs and local non-profit organizations.
“I’m running because Calgary-Shaw is my home and I want to give back to the community that has given my family so much,” said Derry. “I’m listening and will continue to listen and work hard for residents, represent their priorities and make sure Calgary-Shaw has a strong voice in government.”
The by-election also presents a clear choice on Alberta’s economic future.
United Conservatives are working to create jobs, attract investment and get more Alberta energy to world markets. Naheed Nenshi has repeatedly dismissed a new West Coast pipeline as a “pipe dream,” while federal NDP Leader Avi Lewis called it “nation burning.”
Calgary-Shaw cannot afford an NDP MLA helping Naheed Nenshi oppose the pipelines, investment and energy jobs Alberta’s economy depends on.