Allen's Post-Parliamentary Career and Leadership Bid
Following his time in parliament, Allen sought to elevate his political influence by pursuing the leadership of one of New Brunswick's major political organizations. His transition into this phase of his career was marked by a competitive bid for party chairmanship and subsequent legal challenges regarding campaign funding.
The Bid for the New Brunswick Progressive-Conservative Chairmanship
In 2016, Allen entered the race for the leadership of the Progressive Conservative Party of New Brunswick. He was one of seven candidates vying for the position, participating in a convention held on October 22nd.
The selection process took place over multiple rounds of voting. In the first round, Allen secured 16.25% of the vote. As the process moved into the second round, his support increased slightly to 20.22%. Despite this marginal gain, he finished in last place among the remaining candidates and was eliminated from the race.
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Campaign Finance Violations and Legal Outcomes
The aftermath of the leadership bid led to legal scrutiny regarding the funding of Allen's campaign. In July 2018, charges were brought against him for campaign finance violations—the act of breaking laws that govern how money is raised and spent during a political campaign.
The specific allegation was that Allen and his wife had donated a combined sum exceeding $6,000 to his own campaign, which surpassed the legal contribution limits established for such bids. In May 2019, Allen pleaded guilty to these violations of campaign finance law. As a result of the conviction, he was ordered to pay $10,000 in fines.
Key Facts
- Leadership Race: Ran for the Progressive Conservative Party of New Brunswick chairmanship in 2016.
- Election Results: Received 16.25% in the first round and 20.22% in the second round.
- Legal Charges: Charged in July 2018 with campaign finance violations.
- Violation Detail: Exceeded contribution limits via donations from himself and his wife totaling over $6,000.
- Penalty: Pleaded guilty in May 2019 and paid a $10,000 fine.
| Event | Date/Period | Outcome/Detail |
|---|---|---|
| PC Party Leadership Bid | October 22, 2016 | Eliminated in second round (20.22% vote) |
| Finance Charges Filed | July 2018 | Alleged contribution limit breach (>$6,000) |
| Legal Resolution | May 2019 | Guilty plea and $10,000 fine |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which party did Allen attempt to lead in 2016?
Allen ran for the leadership of the Progressive Conservative Party of New Brunswick.
How did Allen perform in the leadership convention?
He won 16.25% of the vote in the first round and 20.22% in the second round, ultimately finishing in last place and being eliminated.
What were the specific campaign finance violations?
Allen and his wife were accused of donating over $6,000 to his campaign, which exceeded the legal contribution limits.
What was the legal consequence of the finance violations?
After pleading guilty in May 2019, Allen was required to pay $10,000 in fines.