There is some truth that vote splitting hurts the voter on the Conservative side.  I think however there is a mistake in the math on the right and some assumptions about the static nature of politics.  1st, there is a belief or hope that all PC votes and Wildrose votes will go to the new party.  Doubtful, as the blend may not closely satisfy people in either party.  2nd. already a new WR party is being concocted by the founding WR members.  WR voters love the far right so any move to the left...where PC voters are could drive them out.  3rd PC voters who vote down the middle may not be so keen on moves to the right.  They didn't vote WR before. 4th Political opposition will go to the vote rich center.  Maybe the NDP could go there unopposed.  Of course the dark horse Alberta party is well positioned to bleed off middle of the road Conservatives.  Ihave always voted PC and will never vote WR.  Con't me out as a potentional vote UC party.