[5] He authored two reports, ("How to Build Alberta Better" and "On Time, On Budget", and co-authored "Twin Highway 63 Now" and "Debt Free Capital Plan".

He studied at Camrose Lutheran College and the University of Alberta, where he completed his bachelor of commerce degree.

A former president of the Kiwanis Club and Opportunity Capital Corporation, he is also a past member of the Kinsmen and Hockey Hounds.

[12] In March 2017, Barnes donated $200.00 to a fund raiser for the research project and documentary initiated by John Robson regarding climate change.

Barnes, a strong proponent of free speech and democratic reform, believes in exploring all sides of all subjects.

Barnes told Global News that at no time has he ever denied climate change, but said he is interested to learn what policy options Robson might propose.

"[13] In June 2020, Barnes released a response to the Fair Deal Panel's recommendations in which he advocated for putting an independence referendum on the table.