In what’s shaping up to be Edmonton’s most entertaining mayoral contest since the invention of the “photo op,” councillor Tim Cartmell’s fundraising efforts have drawn heavy crossover with the United Conservative Party – a coincidence, surely, given his deep commitment to “nonpartisan pragmatism.” Meanwhile, fellow councillor Andrew Knack has emerged as the darling of city staff, proving that when it comes to bureaucracy, true love is spreadsheets-deep.
Political analysts say the split is clear: one side prefers donors who wear blue ties, the other prefers supporters who wear security badges. “It’s really a battle between the boardroom and the break room,” said one observer while nervously checking for FOIP requests.
With Cartmell counting cheques and Knack counting city compliments, voters are left wondering: will the next mayor come from the private sector’s cocktail hour or the public sector’s coffee break?
