Brian Jean's 'beat Rachel Notley' comment reveals barriers to political entry, says strategist

Wildrose leaderBrian Jean'sdistasteful joke about not being allowed to "beat Rachel Notley" hints at why it's so difficult to get "good people" to enter politics,says one political strategist.

Speaking at a town hall meeting in Fort McMurray,Jean said he wouldcontinue to beat the drum on seniors housing, "but it's against the law to beat Rachel Notley."

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He quickly apologizedfor what he called an"inappropriate comment,"and later reached out directly to the premier forforgiveness.

"Brian Jean made a stupid comment,"political strategistStephen Carter toldThe Homestretch.

"Brian Jean knew it was wrong, stood up and said so. That's good," he continued.

"The problem is, his Facebook page is covered with people who are saying similar things, and they're not a joke. He has to employ people to pull those comments down because they happen so often."

Carter said we've fallen into a culture that condones verbal abuse and implied threats of violence againstpoliticians.

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"This bothers me because we can't get enough good people into politics ... because of the threats that are being received by politicians today," he said.

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"This makes me crazy."

"People need to stop threatening people, and take personal responsibility. If you want a better province, stand up and do something about it.

With files from The Homestretch