August 2, 2011
Two posts within two days - clearly must be something going on!
Earlier today, the Globe and Mail broke the story that interim NDP leader and Hull-Aylmer MP Nycole Turmel was a member of the Bloc Québécois up until January of this year.
Relatively quickly, those paying attention to Canadian politics took to social media to sound-off on the issue. There are quite a few outside of Québec who don't support the NDP who see this as an issue. Those within the province, it's likely not to bother.
I'm not an NDP supporter and nor am I an apologist for Nycole Turmel; however, at the end of the day this is such a non-issue.
People change their political opinions all the time. We saw it when Belinda Stronach crossed the floor (although, I don't think that was a change of opinion - that was opportunism at its finest). Ditto for David Emerson. Scott Brison was a Progressive Conservative, crossed the floor to the Liberals and ran for the Liberal leadership in 2006.
Hell - the Liberals are currently led by one of the more famous "floor-crossers" of all-time in Bob Rae. If I was a moderate Liberal, I'd be furious that I was now led by a former socialist (insert sarcasm module here).
While I know that the Conservatives will use this issue (unfortunately) to try and score some political points, the Liberals would be stupid to do so. Why?
I hate to do it, but I have to bring up the 2008 attempt by Stéphane Dion to form a coalition between the Liberals and the NDP. The only way that government, if it had formed, to survive would have been to rely on support from the Bloc Québécois caucus. Gilles Duceppe and the Bloc, although not a part of the government, signed the coalition agreement and were planning to support the coalition on confidence measures through until 2011. It was convenient for the Liberal Party, at the time, to utilize the Bloc. Now that this might help them, I've no doubt they'll go on the attack - and they will look foolish for doing it.
This, at the end of the day, is such a non-issue. While it highlights the work that the NDP opposition has to do in order to actually have some credibility, I could care less where you came from as a politician - it's where you want to take the country that matters. If she says she is a federalist, than I believe her.
Showing posts with label Conservative Party of Canada. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Conservative Party of Canada. Show all posts
Tuesday, 2 August 2011
Tuesday, 21 June 2011
The Senate
June 21, 2011
Back to the political topics... The government tabled its legislation to reform the Senate today.
The bill sets out a one-time, nine-year term for all senators appointed after October 14, 2008 and lays out framework for voluntary provincial senatorial elections. While this sort of fulfills the Conservative plan for an elected senate, it may not go far enough for those who want an "E-E-E" upper chamber.
I once supported an elected senate. The more I think about it, though, the more I realize that I think the NDP has the best policy on the Senate: just get rid of it. The Senate has always been a proving ground for rewarding party loyalists, insiders and activists with a plum posting and a set-for-life salary.
Provincial legislatures have survived without an upper chamber; the Senate doesn't really provide the "sober second thought" that it is supposedly tasked with. Instead, it has become a rubber stamp for almost all government legislation (although it will be interesting to see how they handle this bill, if and when it reaches them).
Senatorial elections will not only be difficult to manage, but will (not might - will) create legislative gridlock. Imagine if, at the height of the sponsorship scandal, we somehow elected a Conservative Senate and had a Liberal government in the House of Commons. Surely, legislation would have been stalled and possibly defeated, solely for partisan purposes.
What's more, an elected Senate could become yet another platform for Québec separatists. Yes, I know the recent election results show that the separatist message is being rejected, but we don't know if that will be forever...
So, it's time to forget about reforming the Senate. Let's just get rid of it. I think it's the ultimate austerity measure...
Back to the political topics... The government tabled its legislation to reform the Senate today.
The bill sets out a one-time, nine-year term for all senators appointed after October 14, 2008 and lays out framework for voluntary provincial senatorial elections. While this sort of fulfills the Conservative plan for an elected senate, it may not go far enough for those who want an "E-E-E" upper chamber.
I once supported an elected senate. The more I think about it, though, the more I realize that I think the NDP has the best policy on the Senate: just get rid of it. The Senate has always been a proving ground for rewarding party loyalists, insiders and activists with a plum posting and a set-for-life salary.
Provincial legislatures have survived without an upper chamber; the Senate doesn't really provide the "sober second thought" that it is supposedly tasked with. Instead, it has become a rubber stamp for almost all government legislation (although it will be interesting to see how they handle this bill, if and when it reaches them).
Senatorial elections will not only be difficult to manage, but will (not might - will) create legislative gridlock. Imagine if, at the height of the sponsorship scandal, we somehow elected a Conservative Senate and had a Liberal government in the House of Commons. Surely, legislation would have been stalled and possibly defeated, solely for partisan purposes.
What's more, an elected Senate could become yet another platform for Québec separatists. Yes, I know the recent election results show that the separatist message is being rejected, but we don't know if that will be forever...
So, it's time to forget about reforming the Senate. Let's just get rid of it. I think it's the ultimate austerity measure...
Tuesday, 14 June 2011
One Throne Speech, One Budget - and Two Strikes
June 14, 2011
Yes, it's been awhile since I've blogged. Things have been hectic!
Since I last blogged, the House of Commons has returned and the business of governing (and politicking) is in full swing. We had a Throne Speech, the March Budget redux (with the added removal of subsidies for political parties) and a vote to extend Canada's involvement in Libya.
If that isn't enough for you, Canada Post is on psuedo-strike and Air Canada check-in agents walked out early this morning, too. With Air Canada, the government was quick to deliver an ultimatum; the company and the union now have 48 hours to reach a deal before the government will move to legislate them back to work.
Let me start with the budget: overall, not too shabby. But I have to agree with the opposition parties when it comes down to the nitty-gritty details about government cutbacks to services. We need to know where these cuts are coming from, how deep they will be and how fast they will come down.
I also have to agree that the cabinet is far too large; if you're preaching restraint, you don't go and appoint the largest cabinet in Canadian history.
A wait-and-see approach regarding budget cuts isn't good enough for me. The devil is in the details and, while I know the review is ongoing and Ministers are to report by December 31, I would hope that some kind of report comes down in regards to progress.
On the Canada Post/Air Canada front: I say we legislate them back to work ASAP. I support the right of unions to exist, but they need to realize the economic circumstances we find ourselves in don't particularly allow for huge raises and increases to benefits.
I find it particularly annoying that Canada Post employees are demanding more, when I'm sure that the volume of mail is dropping. With online banking, e-billing and other technological "wonders," I rarely get mail anymore, aside from flyers and annoying brochures from my MP to update them on the "work" they are doing in Ottawa and in the riding. I can do without both of those things.
Anyways, perhaps I'm just a curmudgeon but there is my latest post. Agree or disagree as you will, your comments are welcome.
*UPDATE - June 15*
It seems now that Canada Post has locked out all of its workers, and Minister Raitt is seriously considering legislating them back to work as well (as she should).
Yes, it's been awhile since I've blogged. Things have been hectic!
Since I last blogged, the House of Commons has returned and the business of governing (and politicking) is in full swing. We had a Throne Speech, the March Budget redux (with the added removal of subsidies for political parties) and a vote to extend Canada's involvement in Libya.
If that isn't enough for you, Canada Post is on psuedo-strike and Air Canada check-in agents walked out early this morning, too. With Air Canada, the government was quick to deliver an ultimatum; the company and the union now have 48 hours to reach a deal before the government will move to legislate them back to work.
Let me start with the budget: overall, not too shabby. But I have to agree with the opposition parties when it comes down to the nitty-gritty details about government cutbacks to services. We need to know where these cuts are coming from, how deep they will be and how fast they will come down.
I also have to agree that the cabinet is far too large; if you're preaching restraint, you don't go and appoint the largest cabinet in Canadian history.
A wait-and-see approach regarding budget cuts isn't good enough for me. The devil is in the details and, while I know the review is ongoing and Ministers are to report by December 31, I would hope that some kind of report comes down in regards to progress.
On the Canada Post/Air Canada front: I say we legislate them back to work ASAP. I support the right of unions to exist, but they need to realize the economic circumstances we find ourselves in don't particularly allow for huge raises and increases to benefits.
I find it particularly annoying that Canada Post employees are demanding more, when I'm sure that the volume of mail is dropping. With online banking, e-billing and other technological "wonders," I rarely get mail anymore, aside from flyers and annoying brochures from my MP to update them on the "work" they are doing in Ottawa and in the riding. I can do without both of those things.
Anyways, perhaps I'm just a curmudgeon but there is my latest post. Agree or disagree as you will, your comments are welcome.
*UPDATE - June 15*
It seems now that Canada Post has locked out all of its workers, and Minister Raitt is seriously considering legislating them back to work as well (as she should).
Tuesday, 10 May 2011
Eight Days Later, the Liberals Learn Nothing
May 10, 2011
As a political observer, one can't help but be transfixed by the most-recent implosion of the Liberal Party. I say most recent, because the Liberals seem to fall into disaster every time they have to find a new leader. Eight days removed from an electoral drubbing, the Liberals are at it again.
With the newly-elected NDP MPs coming under scrutiny, one would think the Liberals would be salivating at the chance to get these rookies in the House and watch them face off against the experienced Tory ministers in Question Period. All the Liberals would seemingly have to do against these rookie members of the Official Opposition is put together a sentence and they would look like a coherent, credible alternative.
Instead, the Liberals are happy to hash out their leadership battles for the Canadian public to see - again - and make it as bloody as possible. Keith Beardsley has put it best, in the National Post: constitution be damned, the Liberals need a quick-fix and ignoring the document on which the party is based is the best way to do it.
Instead of working to become a force in Canadian politics the Liberals are, once again, at each other's throats. Centrist alternative be damned, Liberals have to look out for number one first: themselves.
At the end of the day, this looks better and better for the Conservatives: an inexperienced NDP opposition and a weak Liberal Party that will only get weaker as it fights yet another civil war. I like our chances come 2015...
As a political observer, one can't help but be transfixed by the most-recent implosion of the Liberal Party. I say most recent, because the Liberals seem to fall into disaster every time they have to find a new leader. Eight days removed from an electoral drubbing, the Liberals are at it again.
With the newly-elected NDP MPs coming under scrutiny, one would think the Liberals would be salivating at the chance to get these rookies in the House and watch them face off against the experienced Tory ministers in Question Period. All the Liberals would seemingly have to do against these rookie members of the Official Opposition is put together a sentence and they would look like a coherent, credible alternative.
Instead, the Liberals are happy to hash out their leadership battles for the Canadian public to see - again - and make it as bloody as possible. Keith Beardsley has put it best, in the National Post: constitution be damned, the Liberals need a quick-fix and ignoring the document on which the party is based is the best way to do it.
Instead of working to become a force in Canadian politics the Liberals are, once again, at each other's throats. Centrist alternative be damned, Liberals have to look out for number one first: themselves.
At the end of the day, this looks better and better for the Conservatives: an inexperienced NDP opposition and a weak Liberal Party that will only get weaker as it fights yet another civil war. I like our chances come 2015...
Thursday, 5 May 2011
So now what?
May 5, 2011
Here we are, three days after the election and many are talking about a "seismic shift" in Canadian politics. Depending on who you talk to, there was an "Orange Crush" or an "Orange Wave" that led the NDP to become Canada's new Official Opposition, decimated the Liberal Party of Canada and left Canadians with a Conservative majority government. On top of it all, the Bloc Québécois has been virtually wiped out, holding only four seats in the House of Commons; eight short of even being recognized as an official party in the House.
Now, I'm obviously thrilled with the results. I think a Conservative majority was what this country has needed for a long time. I'm excited about the next four years - low taxes, job creation and a reduction of the deficit. On top of it all, the Prime Minister has committed to Universal Health Care and I think we'll have a relatively moderate government.
I'm also thrilled with the Conservative breakthrough in Toronto. Seats like Eglinton-Lawrence, Don Valley West and even (this one shocked me) Willowdale are now held by Conservative MP's. I know these aren't all the Tory seats in the city, but it's the first few that come to mind. This is a good breakthrough and a testament to the work the Tories have done since 2004 to steadily increase their vote count and finally win some seats.
I do want to take a minute to address those that think Monday's results mean the end of the Liberal Party. It doesn't. When we look at the NDP opposition, it's a bit of a gongshow. I don't doubt the dedication of these new Parliamentarians, but their experience is a little, shall we say, lacking. Even veteran Parliamentarians like Tom Mulcair are already having faux-pas moments where they are having to correct the record. Liberals merely need to seize on this inexperience, time after time, to show that they do have the bench strength to at least form the Official Opposition come 2015.
I also found it fascinating that Jack Layton believes this to be a momentous victory. No question that his achievement is historic and should be applauded as a success for his party, but while he is now the Leader of the Opposition, he has actually lost clout in Parliament. In the previous minority governments, Jack could pry concessions from the government if he wanted to (and if the government would concede to him, in order to avoid defeat). Now, he's the Leader of the Opposition in a majority Parliament. Sorry to break it to you, Jack, but you're likely to accomplish nothing. Maybe Ruth-Ellen Brosseau will take you to Vegas when Parliament breaks for one of its holidays.
Here we are, three days after the election and many are talking about a "seismic shift" in Canadian politics. Depending on who you talk to, there was an "Orange Crush" or an "Orange Wave" that led the NDP to become Canada's new Official Opposition, decimated the Liberal Party of Canada and left Canadians with a Conservative majority government. On top of it all, the Bloc Québécois has been virtually wiped out, holding only four seats in the House of Commons; eight short of even being recognized as an official party in the House.
Now, I'm obviously thrilled with the results. I think a Conservative majority was what this country has needed for a long time. I'm excited about the next four years - low taxes, job creation and a reduction of the deficit. On top of it all, the Prime Minister has committed to Universal Health Care and I think we'll have a relatively moderate government.
I'm also thrilled with the Conservative breakthrough in Toronto. Seats like Eglinton-Lawrence, Don Valley West and even (this one shocked me) Willowdale are now held by Conservative MP's. I know these aren't all the Tory seats in the city, but it's the first few that come to mind. This is a good breakthrough and a testament to the work the Tories have done since 2004 to steadily increase their vote count and finally win some seats.
I do want to take a minute to address those that think Monday's results mean the end of the Liberal Party. It doesn't. When we look at the NDP opposition, it's a bit of a gongshow. I don't doubt the dedication of these new Parliamentarians, but their experience is a little, shall we say, lacking. Even veteran Parliamentarians like Tom Mulcair are already having faux-pas moments where they are having to correct the record. Liberals merely need to seize on this inexperience, time after time, to show that they do have the bench strength to at least form the Official Opposition come 2015.
I also found it fascinating that Jack Layton believes this to be a momentous victory. No question that his achievement is historic and should be applauded as a success for his party, but while he is now the Leader of the Opposition, he has actually lost clout in Parliament. In the previous minority governments, Jack could pry concessions from the government if he wanted to (and if the government would concede to him, in order to avoid defeat). Now, he's the Leader of the Opposition in a majority Parliament. Sorry to break it to you, Jack, but you're likely to accomplish nothing. Maybe Ruth-Ellen Brosseau will take you to Vegas when Parliament breaks for one of its holidays.
Tuesday, 26 April 2011
On the Lighter Side: A Word Cloud!
A word cloud of the most commonly used words thus far. Interesting that "Liberals" seems to be the biggest!
Sunday, 24 April 2011
The Rise of the NDP
April 24, 2011
Yes, I know - I haven't updated this in awhile. I've been keeping up with the campaign, but it's been a hectic week and a half. I apologize to my faithful readers (if I have any) for my delay.
For those who have continued to follow the campaign, you'll know that the NDP has been on the rise in polls. Whether this will translate into seats for Jack Layton and his party, we will have to wait until election night to find out.
Looking at another third party that was seemingly on the rise, we can turn to the Liberal Democrats in the United Kingdom. In the 2010 election there, a massive sweep of "Cleggmania" was expected to wipe out the Labour Party and turn the election into a race between the Conservatives and the Lib Dems. At the end of the day, the Lib Dems kept their share of the vote roughly from the previous general election and actually lost five seats in the process.
There are really two scenarios that could play out due to the rise of the NDP: 1) Left-leaning voters split their "anti-Harper" votes between the NDP and Liberals, allowing Conservative candidates to come up the middle; or 2) Left-leaning voters, seeing the rise of the NDP, coalesce around Jack Layton and provide him with enough seats to overtake the Liberals as the Official Opposition.
To be entirely honest, I would be far more comfortable with the NDP as the Official Opposition. I disagree with everything the NDP stands for, but I respect New Democrats far more than Liberals because New Democrats have principles that they stick to no matter what. This is why I'm a Conservative - because Conservatives also tend to be more principled. Liberals, on the other hand, occupy the "mushy middle" of Canadian politics and don't put the focus on what is the best measures policy wise, but what will best benefit them politically.
It will also be interesting to see what the rise of the NDP means for Toronto-area ridings that have always voted Liberal. The two options I outlined earlier, regarding either the Tories coming up the middle or more New Democrats getting elected could be seen to have the greatest impact right here in Toronto and in other urban centres where Liberals/New Democrats are elected in far greater numbers than Conservatives.
I guess we'll find out in eight days!
Yes, I know - I haven't updated this in awhile. I've been keeping up with the campaign, but it's been a hectic week and a half. I apologize to my faithful readers (if I have any) for my delay.
For those who have continued to follow the campaign, you'll know that the NDP has been on the rise in polls. Whether this will translate into seats for Jack Layton and his party, we will have to wait until election night to find out.
Looking at another third party that was seemingly on the rise, we can turn to the Liberal Democrats in the United Kingdom. In the 2010 election there, a massive sweep of "Cleggmania" was expected to wipe out the Labour Party and turn the election into a race between the Conservatives and the Lib Dems. At the end of the day, the Lib Dems kept their share of the vote roughly from the previous general election and actually lost five seats in the process.
There are really two scenarios that could play out due to the rise of the NDP: 1) Left-leaning voters split their "anti-Harper" votes between the NDP and Liberals, allowing Conservative candidates to come up the middle; or 2) Left-leaning voters, seeing the rise of the NDP, coalesce around Jack Layton and provide him with enough seats to overtake the Liberals as the Official Opposition.
To be entirely honest, I would be far more comfortable with the NDP as the Official Opposition. I disagree with everything the NDP stands for, but I respect New Democrats far more than Liberals because New Democrats have principles that they stick to no matter what. This is why I'm a Conservative - because Conservatives also tend to be more principled. Liberals, on the other hand, occupy the "mushy middle" of Canadian politics and don't put the focus on what is the best measures policy wise, but what will best benefit them politically.
It will also be interesting to see what the rise of the NDP means for Toronto-area ridings that have always voted Liberal. The two options I outlined earlier, regarding either the Tories coming up the middle or more New Democrats getting elected could be seen to have the greatest impact right here in Toronto and in other urban centres where Liberals/New Democrats are elected in far greater numbers than Conservatives.
I guess we'll find out in eight days!
Tuesday, 5 April 2011
The Economy
April 5, 2011
For me, this election is all about one issue: the economy. Yes, I identify myself as conservative and support the Conservative Party. That said, if Michael Ignatieff had presented a stellar economic plan, I would have given him a look. But, his platform came out and it was like traveling in time to the days of Trudeau. As I said in a previous post, the policies of the Trudeau government are a reason why I'm a conservative-minded individual.
With the economy being top of mind, I was pleased to read today that the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) says that Canada will lead the G7 in economic growth for the first half of 2011. In brief, Canada's economy will grow by 5.2 per cent in 2011's first quarter and smaller, but still acceptable, growth rates in the next two quarters.
I have to admit, that when the recession hit, I was worried about the massive amount of spending that was done by federal and provincial governments. I tend to be a bit of a deficit hawk. But looking at the statistics, 23,000 projects were funded across Canada which created 480,000 jobs according to government figures. I also strongly support the government's deficit reduction plan, which includes wrapping up the stimulus spending and conducting a review of government operations. If the Conservative budget measures continue to be implemented, we should be out of deficit by 2015. I can accept that.
For me, there is really only one party that gets the economic balancing act that is necessary at this time - and obviously, it's the Conservatives. Today's report from the OECD just firms up the fact that the Harper Conservatives have done - and will continue to do - a good job (and yes, I support corporate tax cuts).
For me, this election is all about one issue: the economy. Yes, I identify myself as conservative and support the Conservative Party. That said, if Michael Ignatieff had presented a stellar economic plan, I would have given him a look. But, his platform came out and it was like traveling in time to the days of Trudeau. As I said in a previous post, the policies of the Trudeau government are a reason why I'm a conservative-minded individual.
With the economy being top of mind, I was pleased to read today that the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) says that Canada will lead the G7 in economic growth for the first half of 2011. In brief, Canada's economy will grow by 5.2 per cent in 2011's first quarter and smaller, but still acceptable, growth rates in the next two quarters.
I have to admit, that when the recession hit, I was worried about the massive amount of spending that was done by federal and provincial governments. I tend to be a bit of a deficit hawk. But looking at the statistics, 23,000 projects were funded across Canada which created 480,000 jobs according to government figures. I also strongly support the government's deficit reduction plan, which includes wrapping up the stimulus spending and conducting a review of government operations. If the Conservative budget measures continue to be implemented, we should be out of deficit by 2015. I can accept that.
For me, there is really only one party that gets the economic balancing act that is necessary at this time - and obviously, it's the Conservatives. Today's report from the OECD just firms up the fact that the Harper Conservatives have done - and will continue to do - a good job (and yes, I support corporate tax cuts).
Sunday, 3 April 2011
Ground Report
April 3, 2011
This afternoon, I attended the office opening for St. Paul's Conservative candidate Maureen Harquail. It was my first time networking and talking with fellow Conservatives in the riding, since moving here in December.
I was struck, immediately, by the crowd. It was huge! The reports of Toronto being a Liberal bastion may soon be coming to an end; the number of people at the event was impressive, as was the fact that it represented a diverse cross-section of the population of the riding and the city as a whole. Old and young, new Canadians and those who have been here for generations, men and women and more. Talk, not just in the room (where the crowd is biased), but on the street is that Carolyn Bennett, the longtime incumbent Liberal MP, is grating on the nerves of constituents. There is also quite a bit of grumbling that, "coincidentally" the day of the confidence vote, the riding was blanketed by a Carolyn Bennett householder featuring her "accomplishments" over the past weeks and months, as well as a number of photos (which were hard to see and horrendously stretched - desktop publishing is not a strength of Bennett's office, apparently).
Slowly but surely, Conservative candidates with strong credentials like Maureen Harquail, are making a dent in the Liberal's last big bastion of support: downtown Toronto. I'm happy to be a part of it and am looking forward to having her represent me in Ottawa after May 2.
This afternoon, I attended the office opening for St. Paul's Conservative candidate Maureen Harquail. It was my first time networking and talking with fellow Conservatives in the riding, since moving here in December.
I was struck, immediately, by the crowd. It was huge! The reports of Toronto being a Liberal bastion may soon be coming to an end; the number of people at the event was impressive, as was the fact that it represented a diverse cross-section of the population of the riding and the city as a whole. Old and young, new Canadians and those who have been here for generations, men and women and more. Talk, not just in the room (where the crowd is biased), but on the street is that Carolyn Bennett, the longtime incumbent Liberal MP, is grating on the nerves of constituents. There is also quite a bit of grumbling that, "coincidentally" the day of the confidence vote, the riding was blanketed by a Carolyn Bennett householder featuring her "accomplishments" over the past weeks and months, as well as a number of photos (which were hard to see and horrendously stretched - desktop publishing is not a strength of Bennett's office, apparently).
Slowly but surely, Conservative candidates with strong credentials like Maureen Harquail, are making a dent in the Liberal's last big bastion of support: downtown Toronto. I'm happy to be a part of it and am looking forward to having her represent me in Ottawa after May 2.
Friday, 1 April 2011
Urban Issues
April 2, 2011
One of the things that I've found interesting during this campaign so far, is nobody is talking about issues facing Canadian cities. I did not know this until recently (and this will likely make me sound naive) but 80 per cent of the population lives in an urban area.
For the Liberals and NDP to ignore urban issues is intriguing, because this is largely where their seats come from. Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal largely vote Liberal with a smattering of NDP (and Bloc, for our Québec friends). The only cities that the Conservatives dominate are Calgary and Edmonton.
I think this is a prime issue that the Conservatives should latch on to, in an effort to build upon their seat count and achieve their goal of a majority government. Here in Toronto, where a conservative was handily elected Mayor, there are numerous issues that the federal Conservatives could attach themselves to, in order to gain support. Transit is always a top of mind issue, as are infrastructure dollars in general. With a leader in Rob Ford in Toronto, now more than ever is a chance for the Tories to work with a supportive-minded mayor and perhaps win seats in Scarborough, working towards the downtown core in future campaigns.
To be fair, until a few months ago, I lived in a suburban riding. I don't have a full grasp on the urban issues. From a casual observer, though, it's a vote-getter for a wide swath of the population. Someone just needs to latch on and tackle them.
One of the things that I've found interesting during this campaign so far, is nobody is talking about issues facing Canadian cities. I did not know this until recently (and this will likely make me sound naive) but 80 per cent of the population lives in an urban area.
For the Liberals and NDP to ignore urban issues is intriguing, because this is largely where their seats come from. Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal largely vote Liberal with a smattering of NDP (and Bloc, for our Québec friends). The only cities that the Conservatives dominate are Calgary and Edmonton.
I think this is a prime issue that the Conservatives should latch on to, in an effort to build upon their seat count and achieve their goal of a majority government. Here in Toronto, where a conservative was handily elected Mayor, there are numerous issues that the federal Conservatives could attach themselves to, in order to gain support. Transit is always a top of mind issue, as are infrastructure dollars in general. With a leader in Rob Ford in Toronto, now more than ever is a chance for the Tories to work with a supportive-minded mayor and perhaps win seats in Scarborough, working towards the downtown core in future campaigns.
To be fair, until a few months ago, I lived in a suburban riding. I don't have a full grasp on the urban issues. From a casual observer, though, it's a vote-getter for a wide swath of the population. Someone just needs to latch on and tackle them.
Wednesday, 30 March 2011
Why I'm a Conservative
March 30, 2011
I know that I'm not a stereotypical Conservative. When people think "Conservative," they think of an old person, who is often religious, who hates change and doesn't have a sense of the world around them. I don't like stereotypes. I don't see a Liberal as an egghead academic,who looks down upon people from their ivory tower and thinks that they, as an "intellectual superior," are better than me.
I'm a strange breed of Conservative. You could call me a libertarian-liberal-Conservative. I don't like a lot of government - I think it is cumbersome and should stop telling me what to do and how to do it. I believe in supporting those who need assistance - but I also believe again that government isn't the only outlet that can fulfill this; community organizations, churches and individuals have a duty to reach out and help the less fortunate.
I'm a Conservative because I believe criminals belong behind bars. I believe that corporations, not government, creates jobs. I'm a Conservative because, after studying history, I firmly believe that a lot of problems that Canada faced in the latter half of the twentieth century (70's and onwards) were created by the policies of the Trudeau Liberal governments.
I'm a Conservative for a lot of reasons. One day, I will fit the stereotypical idea of what a Conservative is - I'll be old, retired and probably cranky about a lot of things. But for now, I'm content to be a twenty-something, living in downtown Toronto and still... a Conservative.
I know that I'm not a stereotypical Conservative. When people think "Conservative," they think of an old person, who is often religious, who hates change and doesn't have a sense of the world around them. I don't like stereotypes. I don't see a Liberal as an egghead academic,who looks down upon people from their ivory tower and thinks that they, as an "intellectual superior," are better than me.
I'm a strange breed of Conservative. You could call me a libertarian-liberal-Conservative. I don't like a lot of government - I think it is cumbersome and should stop telling me what to do and how to do it. I believe in supporting those who need assistance - but I also believe again that government isn't the only outlet that can fulfill this; community organizations, churches and individuals have a duty to reach out and help the less fortunate.
I'm a Conservative because I believe criminals belong behind bars. I believe that corporations, not government, creates jobs. I'm a Conservative because, after studying history, I firmly believe that a lot of problems that Canada faced in the latter half of the twentieth century (70's and onwards) were created by the policies of the Trudeau Liberal governments.
I'm a Conservative for a lot of reasons. One day, I will fit the stereotypical idea of what a Conservative is - I'll be old, retired and probably cranky about a lot of things. But for now, I'm content to be a twenty-something, living in downtown Toronto and still... a Conservative.
Tuesday, 29 March 2011
On the lighter side
March 29, 2011
This isn't the first time the Prime Minister has sung, but I thought I'd share the latest tune.
This isn't the first time the Prime Minister has sung, but I thought I'd share the latest tune.
Monday, 28 March 2011
The Social Media Election?
March 28, 2011
Early in to "Campaign '11," much is being made out of each party's campaign and the usage of social media. There is a lot of hype - with the Green Party saying it will conduct the most advanced social media campaign Canada has ever seen and statistics about each party's "Facebook Likes" and Twitter followers being analyzed. The Ontario Liberals use fRed, the Conservatives have Tory Nation. Heck, even Jack Layton and the NDP have gotten in on the gig, launching the Jack Layton iPhone app.
My background is in communications and public relations. I don't pretend to be an expert, but social media is not the be all and end all to a national campaign. We have seen its impact in local campaigns; remember the NDP candidate in Durham in 2008, who was forced to step down after making terribly racist and sexist comments on Facebook. But on a national level, social media will not win or lose an election for a party.
Ever since Obama used social media to motivate his base, politicos have looked at it as the master tool. It's not - especially for the Conservative Party of Canada.
Whether a seat is urban or rural, social media is not going to have a massive impact on a campaign, despite what the powers that be think. Picture, for a moment, the core supporters of the Conservative Party. What comes to mind? It's not a latte-sipping, bike riding resident of Toronto or Vancouver. It's a middle class family with not a lot of spare time, it's a senior enjoying their retirement years or it's a farmer. Now picture any of those people engaged in social media, aside from keeping in touch with friends and family!
This campaign is not about social media - it's about the economy and whether or not Canadians are sick and tired of the constant politicking that comes with minority parliament.
Early in to "Campaign '11," much is being made out of each party's campaign and the usage of social media. There is a lot of hype - with the Green Party saying it will conduct the most advanced social media campaign Canada has ever seen and statistics about each party's "Facebook Likes" and Twitter followers being analyzed. The Ontario Liberals use fRed, the Conservatives have Tory Nation. Heck, even Jack Layton and the NDP have gotten in on the gig, launching the Jack Layton iPhone app.
My background is in communications and public relations. I don't pretend to be an expert, but social media is not the be all and end all to a national campaign. We have seen its impact in local campaigns; remember the NDP candidate in Durham in 2008, who was forced to step down after making terribly racist and sexist comments on Facebook. But on a national level, social media will not win or lose an election for a party.
Ever since Obama used social media to motivate his base, politicos have looked at it as the master tool. It's not - especially for the Conservative Party of Canada.
Whether a seat is urban or rural, social media is not going to have a massive impact on a campaign, despite what the powers that be think. Picture, for a moment, the core supporters of the Conservative Party. What comes to mind? It's not a latte-sipping, bike riding resident of Toronto or Vancouver. It's a middle class family with not a lot of spare time, it's a senior enjoying their retirement years or it's a farmer. Now picture any of those people engaged in social media, aside from keeping in touch with friends and family!
This campaign is not about social media - it's about the economy and whether or not Canadians are sick and tired of the constant politicking that comes with minority parliament.
Sunday, 27 March 2011
On Coalitions
March 27, 2011
Since 2008, "coalition" has become a dirty word in Canadian politics. I shared the shock after the last election when the Liberals, who had just come from one of their worst showings in Canadian electoral history, decided to try and overturn the results of the election, install Stéphane Dion as Prime Minister and welcome the NDP in cabinet.
Here we are, two and a half years later, and heading to the polls once again. As we know, Stephen Harper is using the coalition issue to garner support for the Conservatives, while Michael Ignatieff disavows himself of trying to form a coalition government.
The debate on this issue, in my opinion, is distracting. As we saw in the U.K., coalitions are a legitimate form of government in a parliamentary democracy. I agree with Harper, however, that the party that wins the largest number of seats, should form the government. That said, though, there is the potential in this election for the Tories to be returned with a minority, Parliament to return and the government to be voted down on the Speech from the Throne. It would be likely, in that situation, for the Governor General to ask the Official Opposition (likely to be the Liberals) to try and form a government that can command confidence of the House. In this situation, a coalition is necessary for the political stability of the country.
This election should not be about constitutional convention. Instead, voters should focus on their pocketbooks. Who is going to provide economic growth, keep taxes low and reduce the deficit? The Conservative Party of Canada. Do we need political stability to stop the insanity of constant electioneering in minority parliament? Yes. This election should be about economic and political stability. Those are the issues I want addressed - and to address them, I'll be voting Conservative.
Since 2008, "coalition" has become a dirty word in Canadian politics. I shared the shock after the last election when the Liberals, who had just come from one of their worst showings in Canadian electoral history, decided to try and overturn the results of the election, install Stéphane Dion as Prime Minister and welcome the NDP in cabinet.
Here we are, two and a half years later, and heading to the polls once again. As we know, Stephen Harper is using the coalition issue to garner support for the Conservatives, while Michael Ignatieff disavows himself of trying to form a coalition government.
The debate on this issue, in my opinion, is distracting. As we saw in the U.K., coalitions are a legitimate form of government in a parliamentary democracy. I agree with Harper, however, that the party that wins the largest number of seats, should form the government. That said, though, there is the potential in this election for the Tories to be returned with a minority, Parliament to return and the government to be voted down on the Speech from the Throne. It would be likely, in that situation, for the Governor General to ask the Official Opposition (likely to be the Liberals) to try and form a government that can command confidence of the House. In this situation, a coalition is necessary for the political stability of the country.
This election should not be about constitutional convention. Instead, voters should focus on their pocketbooks. Who is going to provide economic growth, keep taxes low and reduce the deficit? The Conservative Party of Canada. Do we need political stability to stop the insanity of constant electioneering in minority parliament? Yes. This election should be about economic and political stability. Those are the issues I want addressed - and to address them, I'll be voting Conservative.
Friday, 25 March 2011
Away we go!
March 25, 2011
I thought today would be a fitting day to kick-off my first attempt at political blogging, since the government fell earlier this afternoon and the 41st General Election campaign is set to begin.
In case you cannot tell by the (obliquely obvious) title of the blog, I am a supporter of the Conservative Party of Canada and a resident of the City of Toronto in the riding of St. Paul's. Over the course of the campaign, I'll talk about local issues in the city, as well as explore the national issues and campaign news. I won't pretend to be an expert and I'll try to keep it amusing. If you're looking for balanced coverage, go elsewhere - this is unabashed conservatism here.
As for my own personal views on the issues, I'm fiscally conservative and socially moderate. I guess you could call me a Red Tory - except when it comes to issues surrounding law and order; when we're talking crime, I'm unabashedly right-wing.
I will commit, however, to maintaining a level of respectful debate. I have a number of Liberal (and liberal) friends who I have great respect for. Indeed, in the recent municipal campaign in my old hometown, I worked with Liberal supporters. I respect their values and passion, but I don't agree with them when it comes to federal and provincial politics.
Full disclosure leads me to tell you that I am also a former Conservative staffer, working in a constituency office in my old hometown for a Conservative MP and cabinet minister. I'll be spending some time assisting with her re-election efforts as well.
As we kick off this campaign, I hope you'll enjoy the posts and participate in the discussion. I look forward to it!
I thought today would be a fitting day to kick-off my first attempt at political blogging, since the government fell earlier this afternoon and the 41st General Election campaign is set to begin.
In case you cannot tell by the (obliquely obvious) title of the blog, I am a supporter of the Conservative Party of Canada and a resident of the City of Toronto in the riding of St. Paul's. Over the course of the campaign, I'll talk about local issues in the city, as well as explore the national issues and campaign news. I won't pretend to be an expert and I'll try to keep it amusing. If you're looking for balanced coverage, go elsewhere - this is unabashed conservatism here.
As for my own personal views on the issues, I'm fiscally conservative and socially moderate. I guess you could call me a Red Tory - except when it comes to issues surrounding law and order; when we're talking crime, I'm unabashedly right-wing.
I will commit, however, to maintaining a level of respectful debate. I have a number of Liberal (and liberal) friends who I have great respect for. Indeed, in the recent municipal campaign in my old hometown, I worked with Liberal supporters. I respect their values and passion, but I don't agree with them when it comes to federal and provincial politics.
Full disclosure leads me to tell you that I am also a former Conservative staffer, working in a constituency office in my old hometown for a Conservative MP and cabinet minister. I'll be spending some time assisting with her re-election efforts as well.
As we kick off this campaign, I hope you'll enjoy the posts and participate in the discussion. I look forward to it!
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