It’s been nearly two weeks since the government tabled its budget in Alberta, and Premier Jim Prentice has called for an election to prove he and his party have the mandate to govern the province.

Prentice made the announcement at Crestwood Community Hall in Edmonton on Tuesday morning.

"Alberta's at a turning point. I'm asking Albertans for a mandate to implement the changes that are needed in this province. Whether the election is held this year of next year, it will cost the same, but I'm asking for a mandate to make the changes that are needed. We've put forward a realistic vision for this province and Albertans deserve the right to judge that vision."

Prentice has said that he wants the budget, which is filled with new taxes and fees for Albertans, to be mandated by voters.

The election is a full year ahead of provincial law.

Prentice said that Alberta has strayed from the values of conservative spending and saving for the future. He is planning to tackle the issues ahead without shocking the economy.

He says that's up to other parties to present a meaningful plan on how to take on those same problems themselves.

The Wildrose launched their campaign shortly after Prentice dropped the writ in Edmonton.

This will be Brian Jean's first election as leader of the party. "Over the next 28 days, the Wildrose will lay out a vision for Alberta. A vision that stands up for Albertans. We will stand up for Albertans."

The Liberals have also set out their plan for the election, saying they are not giving up the fight despite the fact that three of their five current MLAs won't be running.

Swann told a gathering in Calgary on Tuesday that the PC government can't be trusted, saying it's abandoned families and regular Albertans.

He has vowed to fight for small businesses and low income earners. "There has been way too much uncertainty, flip-flops, dishonesty, serving ourselves, the PCs serving themselves and their friends and large corporations. It's time we got balance in this province and acted in Albertans' interest. That's what the Liberals are about."

Rachel Notley, leader of the Alberta NDP announced her party's campaign as well, saying that 44 years of PC rule is enough for Alberta.

"It's clear that Albertans feel let down by their government - it's time for new leadership," she said in a release.

So far, the PCs are the only party in the province to have candidates in every riding.

But, the NDP and Wildrose have committed to matching that amount.

“Every party has their target seat list,” said Jeff Callaway with the Wildrose. “We’re no different than anyone else, When we’re running, our goal is to be Official Opposition and provide a strong voice for Albertans.”

The NDP has bigger hopes in the election, and is ready whenever it is called. “My sights are set on Jim Prentice and that’s very clear,” says leader Rachel Notley. “I’m not running for second place. I’m running in order to give Albertans a genuine alternative they can choose.”

Voters head to the polls on May 5, 2015.