Cochrane’s Jamie Kleinsteuber, 34, is Alberta’s newest New Democratic (ND) candidate.
Kleinsteuber, who made the announcement at the party’s nomination meeting held in Canmore, Aug. 25, is hoping to win a seat in the historically conservative Banff-Cochrane riding.
Kleinsteuber was motivated by a desire to improve life for middle class citizens, who he says have been hit hard over the years.
“I think the middle class needs to stand up for itself before giving any more handouts to banks and big corporations,” said Kleinsteuber. “Banks and other execs have seemed to do very well and not missed any opportunity. I think it is time to fight against some of the trends.”
Kleinsteuber, an airline industry employee, is originally from a small town in Ontario and moved to Cochrane about a year and a half ago.
He has worked for a number of political campaigns in Quebec and Ontario, including both Liberal and New Democratic candidates.
The provincial NDs are hoping to complete nominations in all of the province’s 87 ridings within the next month in anticipation of a fall election.
Kleinsteuber, who has degrees in public policy and management, and history, and a background in travel and tourism, says the party is in good shape for the upcoming election.
“Recently, the (national) NDP has definitely lifted their profile,” said Kleinsteuber. “They put people first rather than corporations.”
If elected, Kleinsteuber says he will work to boost tourism and industry in his riding.
“I see so much that could be done to boost tourism in Cochrane and Canmore,” he said. “The uniqueness and special character of these communities are not being fully tapped.”
Kleinsteuber said his toughest challenge will be getting to know his constituents.
“Starting fresh is going to be difficult,” said Kleinsteuber. “I moved straight here from out east.”
Kleinsteuber said he hopes to build on the increasing awareness of the ND’s concern and compassion for families, its support for improved health care and green energy alternatives, and its commitment to fiscal responsibility.
“This constituency also deserves more publicly accountable and transparent representation than it’s had in the past,” he said.
Conservative MLA Janis Tarchuk has held office in the riding for the past 14 years.
