Is the election drama a distraction from real issues?

The first week of the Alberta election campaign is looking more like an American one, as it's been filled with personal attacks - ranging from Smith accusing Redford of not liking Alberta, to a Tory staffer resigning after questioning the sincerity behind the Wildrose Family Package, based on the fact that Smith does not have children of her own, and finding out Smith, in fact, cannot have children.

But the question is - does the drama entice people to pay attention to the political scene or just turn them off?

The people we spoke to say the tactic of playing dirty is not earning their vote.

"I think if they have to use those tactics to get those people to vote than they shouldn't vote in the first place," said one person we spoke to.

"We have enough problems in this country without having to watch our politicians in the caucus fighting like little children," said another.

It's already prompted NDP leader Brian Mason to send an open letter last week, telling the other party leaders to keep it civil.

Liberal leader Raj Sherman says his party won't be a part of the fighting that's going on, which he thinks takes away from what really matters. "It's unfortunate that the two conservative leaders have been going at it on personal attacks. I would like to debate and fight over ideas and solutions," he said.

Now political scientist Jim Lightbody is also weighing in. He believes the reality-style drama is doing more harm than good, and that it's hurting the Tories more than the Wildrose Party.

"The current personal attack may change the orientation of some women who are voting and some guys too," Lightbody said.

""The more we find out about the Conservative Party, the less we think they're fit to govern," he added, explaining that the recent scandals are showcasing parts of the Tory culture that do not appeal to many Albertan voters.

With files from Slav Kornik, Global News