EDMONTON – New Democrats across Alberta rejoiced on the evening of June 12th as Brian Mason, a popular Edmonton City Councillor, swept the riding of Edmonton-Highlands to replace former ND Leader Pam Barrett.

"Look out Ralph, move over Nancy, Highlands is New Democrat territory!" Mason exclaimed in his victory speech that night.

Many commentators saw much more in the win than just the New Democrats holding onto a traditional riding.

With Mason capturing almost 60% of the vote and the Liberals and Tories battling it out for second and third, it seemed clear that many voters were turning to the New Democrats following the Bill 11 aftermath.

"The real test in this by-election was for Liberal leader Nancy MacBeth. Voters had a chance to take the measure of three things about the Liberal Party: Liberal competence in the fight against Bill 11; MacBeth’s own performance and low-key style; and, finally, her party’s credibility among voters as the government-in-waiting. But the numbers don’t look good for the Liberals on any count," wrote the Edmonton Journal editorial board.

Since the win, both Pannu and Mason have toured the province, visiting communities like Fort McMurray, Lethbridge, Athabasca, Red Deer and Medicine Hat. "We’re just getting warmed up," said Mason. "This fall is going to be incredibly exciting, leading up to our fall convention."

The annual convention of the Alberta New Democrats takes place in Edmonton, November 4-6th. This will most likely be the final convention before the next provincial election -- which is expected next spring.