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JL DeCosta is running for the open spot of Bow River MP after current MP Martin Shields said he won't be going for the position again. Photo submitted/JL DeCosta
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It's an election year for Canada and as we move through the months an early federal election could be possible.

Longtime Bow River MP Martin Shields has decided to hang up his hat and retire from politics.

DeCosta is one of the men running and has been serving as the Director of Parliamentary Affairs for Shields for the past five years. He says he wants to continue fighting for Albertans.

"I'm from the riding; I know the riding inside and out I know the issues. I've been to every corner of the riding. I believe I have a fresh and energetic perspective that connects with the wide range of residents."

DeCosta says that after nine years of a Liberal government, the promise of Canada has been robbed from people.

"I too wonder if I'll ever be able to afford a home if it's something that I never thought I would have to worry about. You know the promise of Canada was you go to school, you get a trade, you do whatever you can, you get a good job."

Chestermere is where DeCosta grew up, but he has been living in Ottawa for the past five years as he works with Sheilds on Parliament Hill. 

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He grew up in a home of small business owners and had family in Alberta's energy industry.

"My family's story like many in the province of Alberta and in Alberta history, where the energy industry was a big part of putting food on the table. Family is very important to me, and I value my cultural heritage very much," explained DeCosta.

He also told StrathmoreNow that he knows three languages which are English, Portuguese, and Croatian.

This year's federal election could see a change in government. According to Leger, during a recent poll of Canadians, the Conservatives have been enjoying a nice lead of nine points over the Liberals. 

Historically the Bow River has been a safe Conservative seat and if DeCosta wins the party nomination, there is a good chance he could end up in Parliament. 

DeCosta said that his key policies are important to the residents of Bow River.

"Number one, Alberta must reassert itself in Confederation and get a fair deal. For far too long, Alberta's had a systemic disadvantage within Confederation."

"Three features that I've singled out are protecting agriculture, guarding animal welfare, and securing domestic sugar."

DeCosta also mentioned he wants more Canadian oil to be used by the country.

"We have clean, sustainable energy in our province. We have the energy we can provide. It's time we come together as a country and help each other rather than focus on what's dividing us."

DeCosta believes he is the only candidate with the knowledge and skill to take the position.

"I believe I'm the only candidate with the experience necessary to do the job of a parliamentarian to deliver the message, to enact the change, and represent every riding, no matter where they're from in the riding."

DeCosta will have to beat two other men for the Conservative nomination which includes David Bexte and Graham Abela.

StrathmoreNow has reached out to the Bow River Conservative Association for when voting for the nominees will take place. We will update the story once we hear back.

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