New Brunswick Premier Shawn Graham is avoiding being drawn into the controversy over the potential Liberal-NDP coalition government in Ottawa by refusing to offer his thoughts on the political drama.

Graham called the developments in Ottawa a distraction, while Canada needs political stability in a time of economic uncertainty.

But the Liberal premier would not say whether he hopes his federal Liberal allies manage to form a coalition government with the NDP.

"Here in New Brunswick, in my capacity, we're dealing with the task at hand, and that's dealing with the fiscal crisis and at the same time putting in an economic stimulus package that shows that we're leading the way," he said.

Graham's refusal comes as Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach condemned the idea of bringing down the Harper government.

"Put Canada first and stop the nonsense," Stelmach said. "This is a time when we need sane, prudent leadership dealing with the bigger elephant in the room, which is the global economic crisis, and it's a real concern to all Albertans."

While the New Brunswick premier sought to avoid commenting on the political drama unfolding in Ottawa, there was no stopping some of the province's federal politicians.

Tory MP Greg Thompson, the veterans affairs minister, said the Canadian economy would be best served by keeping the Conservatives in power.

"We're way ahead of the curve in terms of an economic downturn in the world, and I really think we are the envy of the world in terms of our economic positioning," Thompson said.

Beausejour MP Dominic LeBlanc, who is a candidate for the federal Liberal leadership, said the Conservatives are out of touch with Canadians and should be replaced.

"We're going to do things the Conservatives aren't interested in doing, which is looking after people in need during a difficult time like this," LeBlanc said.