Calgary city councillor Dan McLean lost his bid for a UCP nomination in the Calgary Shaw riding on Wednesday, but he interpreted the defeat as a sign of his popularity. In a post on X after the loss, McLean wrote: “I understand why many don’t want to lose me at city hall fighting for conservative policies and common sense.”
McLean’s Claim of Victory in Defeat
McLean’s assertion that the loss was really a vote of confidence in his work as a councillor drew criticism. Columnist Don Braid described the reasoning as “political smog” that baffles ordinary citizens. Some observers initially speculated that McLean’s defeat stemmed from his support for Premier Danielle Smith’s criticism of city council over a Stampede noise bylaw, but Braid argued the causes were more complex.
Separatist Voters and a Shrewd Campaign
One key factor, according to Braid, was the UCP’s disqualification of a separatist candidate for the Calgary Shaw seat. Angered separatist UCP members likely shifted their support to McLean’s opponent, Mike Derry, viewing McLean as the establishment candidate. Additionally, Craig Chandler, who managed Derry’s campaign, launched a strategy that urged UCP members to sign a letter asking McLean to stay on council. The letter read: “You can’t effectively represent the wishes of Ward 13 at city hall while also seeking a nomination for the UCP in Calgary Shaw. This is a serious conflict of interest.” It flattered McLean while criticizing his decision to seek a provincial seat so early in his term.
Unprecedented Timing and Political Fallout
Braid noted that McLean’s attempt to upgrade his career just one year into a four-year term was unusual. “I can’t recall a councillor trying to upgrade their career so soon after being elected,” he wrote. The defeat also had implications for Mayor Jeromy Farkas and council. Former councillor Sonya Sharp, who lost the mayoral race to Farkas by only 616 votes, was reportedly ready to run in a byelection to replace McLean. That would have set up a rematch with Farkas and potentially disrupted council harmony. Farkas, Braid suggested, would prefer McLean as a UCP voice on council over the more formidable Sharp.
Broader Political Context
The episode highlights tensions within the UCP and between city and provincial politics. McLean’s loss, despite his establishment backing, underscores the influence of factional disputes and strategic campaigning. As Braid concluded, “McLean was perfectly set up for the big flop. He deserved it.”
