Quest served two terms as MLA, first for Strathcona, and subsequently for Strathcona-Sherwood Park. In addition to his regular duties as an MLA, he had roles on many committees during his term, including as Chair of the Cabinet Policy Committee on Finance. However, he was defeated in 2015 along with most of the Progressive Conservative caucus. Quest defended his successor, Estefania Cortes-Vargas, when The Rebel Media published personal attacks against them, stating that "to be attacked as an individual based on your sexuality or your country of birth is inexcusable." Having opposed Jason Kenney's bid for leadership of the Progressive Conservatives, Quest joined the Alberta Party and will be its candidate in Strathcona-Sherwood Park in 2019.
Personal life
Quest spent his high school years in the Ardrossan area where his father was the local veterinarian. Over the years he was fortunate to have many opportunities to enjoy animals, including his horses Chunky and Chea. Dave graduated from Ardrossan Sr. High School and regularly attends the Ardrossan United Church. Dave obtained his post-secondary education from NAIT and in 1985 he graduated with a business administration diploma with a major in marketing management. Dave established a successful and rewarding career in the automotive industry. Prior to his election, he was the President of Kallal Pontiac in Tofield, and then general sales manager and a shareholder of Beaverhill GMC in Tofield and Petersen Pontiac in Sherwood Park. In 1997 he achieved a General Motors Dealer Award of Excellence. During his business career, Dave served with the Better Business Bureau of Northern Alberta, fulfilling various board positions, including chair and director of the Canadian Council. These volunteer experiences built a foundation for his future role of provincial representative. Dave has many personal interests, including sports. He coached a minor soccer team for four years. He enjoys running and has completed the Edmonton half-marathon six times. Dave also loves aviation, having obtained his private pilot's licence in 1998. He flies small aircraft and takes frequent tours around the constituency, Dave, his wife Fiona Beland-Quest, and their son live in Sherwood Park. Two Newfoundland dogs and two cats round out their household.
