Bridging

Political culture & public opinion.

Groups & communities.

Knowledge & practice.

Politics & policy.

Bridging

Political culture & public opinion.

Groups & communities.

Knowledge & practice.

Politics & policy.

LAtest Books

Party (Dis)Loyalty in Canada

The Politics of Public Policy & Administration

Why are Canadian politicians so loyal to their parties? Why do most MPs and provincial legislators follow their leader’s lead—sticking to approved lines and talking points—while so few break ranks as mavericks, or commit the ultimate act of defiance by crossing the floor? And what, if anything, could loosen the grip party leaders hold over elected representatives?

The Politics of Public Policy & Administration

How do you build a career in Canada’s public service—and actually thrive once you’re inside? How do you navigate the space where politics, public administration, and public policy collide? And what practical skills, expectations, and career strategies do new (and aspiring) public servants need to serve the public good?

Provincial Politics in Canada

Canadian Government & Politics

How do Canadians govern themselves at the provincial and territorial level? In what ways do distinct regional histories, cultures, and identities shape each province or territory into its own “political universe”? How have recent events and new evidence updated our understanding of regionalism, leadership, and the patterns that connect—and divide—Canadians?

Canadian Government & Politics

How do Canada’s core political institutions shape the issues at the heart of the country’s political system? How effective is Canada’s political system in addressing today’s realities, like Indigenous modes of governance, the lasting impacts of COVID-19, and Canada’s evolving relationship with the U.S. and the world?

About ME

Life in the West

Learning in the West

I grew up in Minnedosa -- a fantastic small town nestled in a southwestern Manitoba valley. Son of two teachers in a biracial family, I learned early on the importance of education in bridging cultural divides. I've taken those lessons with me as I've traveled throughout Western Canada, settling in Edmonton with my own family on a similar Saskatchewan River that flowed through my hometown.

Learning in the West

I am a professor of political science at the University of Alberta. I'm a second-generation Black alumnus from the University of Manitoba (MA 2004). Twice I've traveled west for school, first at UAlberta (BA 2002) then UCalgary (2009). I've held faculty positions at two of my alma maters, working alongside Western Canada's most talented and dynamic political scientists.

Pracademia

Learning in the West

Pracademia

I'm a practicing political scientist with experience in the government and knowledge sectors. I served in various nonpartisan roles within the Government of Manitoba and the Government of Alberta. I'm privileged to have supported five (5) premiers as an intergovernmental relations specialist. I'm also proud to have worked in cabinet coordination and learning & development.

Jared Wesley

Bridging

Bridging