2011 is shaping up to be a fun year in Alberta politics, what with the PCs and Liberals both choosing new leaders, and a provincial election looming. That said, I suspect this blog’s focus will be shifting to the federal scene for the next six weeks. Call it a hunch.

I will, however, strive to pay attention to the 28 seats up for grabs in Alberta. It’s tough to find news when only 1 or 2 seats are in play, but there’s always news to be found if you look hard enough. As always, feel free to e-mail me any tips you hear about Alberta campaigns.

With that said, a glance at provincial politics before it gets pushed to the back burner:

1. Raj Sherman is an interesting character. I worked with him back during the 2006 Liberal leadership race, and let’s just say I’m not shocked by his actions over the past few months. You’ll recall he was punted from the PC caucus back in November after sending his entire address book a typo-laden late night e-mail that was especially critical of Stelmach’s performance on Health Care. Since then, Sherman has become a Health Care crusader, raising red flags about problems in the system. His voice was a welcome addition to a debate Alberta sorely needs to have. He’d even mused about running for leadership – he just hadn’t decided on which party.

However, it appears the good doctor may have jumped the shark. Last week, Sherman made stunning claims in the legislature about bribery, fraud, and coverups in Alberta’s Health Care system. The problem is, he has been unable to offer up proof, and has since backtracked on many of his wilder accusations. With his credibility taking a hit, it will be interesting to watch what Alberta’s maverick MLA does next.

2. Partly due to Sherman’s allegations, Ed Stelmach has called an inquiry into Health Care wait times. Consider it a parting gift for his successor.

3. One possible successor is Gary Mar, who is getting ready to declare his candidacy for the PC leadership race.

4. And what of the Wildrose in all of this? Kyle Olsen offers up analysis on their latest householder.

5. One of the newest Wildrosers is former PC Cabmin Lyle Oberg. If you want to see what Lyle and some of his more colourful friends have been up to in Vietnam, then mosey on over to Daveberta.