Lots of people complain about our faltering government-monopoly health care system, but few are doing anything about it.
But that's about to change.
The Canadian Constitution Foundation is helping retired auto worker Lindsay McCreith launch a legal challenge to Ontario's health care system.
McCreith says, in fact, the health care system almost killed him.
As CCF executive director John Carpay noted in a recent National Post column:
After suffering a seizure in January of 2006, the 66-year-old Newmarket resident was told he had a brain tumour. But he would have to wait four-and-one-half months to obtain an MRI to rule out the possibility that it was cancerous. Unwilling to risk the progression of what might be cancer, Mr. McCreith obtained an MRI in Buffalo, which revealed the brain tumour was malignant. Even with this diagnosis in hand, the Ontario system still refused to provide timely treatment, so Mr. McCreith had surgery in Buffalo to remove the cancerous brain tumour in March of 2006.
In Ontario, Mr. McCreith would have waited eight months for surgery, according to his family doctor. Eight months is quite enough time for a cancer to worsen, spread and progress to an irreversible stage. Had Mr. McCreith not paid $27,600 ($U.S.) for immediate medical care, he might be dead today.
It seems Mr. McCreith has a good case. And if the 2005 Supreme Court of Canada Chaoulli decision is anything to go by he will win.
The court in that case ruled access to a waiting list is not the same as access to health care and that a total ban on private health insurance is not necessary in order to maintain a sound public health system.
This case should build on that precedent.
Anyone wishing to help fund this important and worthy cause can do so here.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Sinking Tories
When the Conservative Party started drifting to the Left, the political geniuses in the Prime Minister's Office said it was all part of a crafty strategy designed to ensure a majority government.
The National Citizens Coalition even backed this reasoning. In its latest newsletter, Freedom Watch, the NCC defends the March budget --- which to many observers was more Liberal than Conservative -- this way:
"This is a budget designed to appeal to voters in suburban Canada, gaining the Tories favour in areas like the vote rich GTA and rural Quebec."
The newsletter also notes, "All in all, this was a `minority' budget, and while it focused far too heavily on spending, we can only hope that it will firm up enough support to form a majority government."
Well it seems it hasn't worked.
In fact, the latest SES poll shows the Tories and the Liberals are in a dead heat.
What makes this all the more astounding is that the Liberals have an extremely weak leader.
What's going on here?
Well maybe the voters are picking up on something that has eluded both the NCC and the PMO.
Simply put, Canadians want their leaders to stand for something; to have some sort of values or vision.
The only thing the Tories seem to stand for is winning.
So maybe the Conservatives should try another strategy. Maybe they should actually try sticking by their principles.
The National Citizens Coalition even backed this reasoning. In its latest newsletter, Freedom Watch, the NCC defends the March budget --- which to many observers was more Liberal than Conservative -- this way:
"This is a budget designed to appeal to voters in suburban Canada, gaining the Tories favour in areas like the vote rich GTA and rural Quebec."
The newsletter also notes, "All in all, this was a `minority' budget, and while it focused far too heavily on spending, we can only hope that it will firm up enough support to form a majority government."
Well it seems it hasn't worked.
In fact, the latest SES poll shows the Tories and the Liberals are in a dead heat.
What makes this all the more astounding is that the Liberals have an extremely weak leader.
What's going on here?
Well maybe the voters are picking up on something that has eluded both the NCC and the PMO.
Simply put, Canadians want their leaders to stand for something; to have some sort of values or vision.
The only thing the Tories seem to stand for is winning.
So maybe the Conservatives should try another strategy. Maybe they should actually try sticking by their principles.
Monday, May 07, 2007
Bubbles on Halifax
Attended the Civitas conference this past weekend in Halifax.
As usual, it was a terrific event where I met many old friends, made new friends and had a chance to hear some fascinating discussions on domestic and international issues.
Unfortunately, such discussions are off the record, but what I can tell you about is the wonderful tour I and a couple of friends took of the city.
Our tour guide's name was Bubbles, a Quebecker who had lived in Nova Scotia for 39 years.
Anyway, Bubbles drove us around the city in his cab for two hours pointing out Halifax's sites and filling us in on the local history.
For one thing, he drove us through what he called the city's most "dangerous neighborhood", which turned out to be about half a block long, and actually seemed kind of nice to me.
Bubbles also noted pedestrians have a short life expectancy in Halifax due to the fact that Haligonians seem to wander into traffic with a reckless nonchalance. Indeed, Bubbles himself nearly got run over when we got out of the cab to check the famous Citadel.
The highlight of the tour, however, was our visit to the cemetary containing the graves of 150 poor souls who died on the Titanic.
Bubbles says the site became something of a tourist attraction after the James Cameron movie came out in 1997.
I just hope nobody got hit by a car walking to the cemetary.
As usual, it was a terrific event where I met many old friends, made new friends and had a chance to hear some fascinating discussions on domestic and international issues.
Unfortunately, such discussions are off the record, but what I can tell you about is the wonderful tour I and a couple of friends took of the city.
Our tour guide's name was Bubbles, a Quebecker who had lived in Nova Scotia for 39 years.
Anyway, Bubbles drove us around the city in his cab for two hours pointing out Halifax's sites and filling us in on the local history.
For one thing, he drove us through what he called the city's most "dangerous neighborhood", which turned out to be about half a block long, and actually seemed kind of nice to me.
Bubbles also noted pedestrians have a short life expectancy in Halifax due to the fact that Haligonians seem to wander into traffic with a reckless nonchalance. Indeed, Bubbles himself nearly got run over when we got out of the cab to check the famous Citadel.
The highlight of the tour, however, was our visit to the cemetary containing the graves of 150 poor souls who died on the Titanic.
Bubbles says the site became something of a tourist attraction after the James Cameron movie came out in 1997.
I just hope nobody got hit by a car walking to the cemetary.
Friday, May 04, 2007
NCC Loves Buzz?
Wow things have changed since I worked at the National Citizens Coalition.
Now apparently NCC president Peter Coleman is praising socialist CAW leader Buzz Hargrove.
This is from a column in today's Toronto Sun written by CUPE boss Sid Ryan:
"It's not very often I find myself stuck for a quick rebuttal while engaging with Canada's right-wingers. However, I have to admit I was flummoxed last week on the Michael Coren Show when National Citizens Coalition (NCC) President Peter Coleman began singing the praises of my friend Buzz Hargrove.
Apparently, Buzz, who leads the Canadian Auto Workers Union (CAW), had just given a ringing endorsement to Conservative Environment Minister John Baird's so-called Green Plan. Coleman could hardly contain himself, effusively praising "Buzz's sensible approach to the environment." His praise was all the more astonishing given that the NCC is launching a newspaper and radio ad campaign against Hargrove in the run-up to the next federal election.
Their web site claims, "Hargrove wants to destroy the free market system: He wants to destroy our heritage, he wants to transform Canada into a second-rate socialist state." Quite frankly, they haven't thought this one through. I say that because one would have to be a mental gymnast to keep track of the myriad positions Buzz has spun in the past couple of years."
Amazing.
Now apparently NCC president Peter Coleman is praising socialist CAW leader Buzz Hargrove.
This is from a column in today's Toronto Sun written by CUPE boss Sid Ryan:
"It's not very often I find myself stuck for a quick rebuttal while engaging with Canada's right-wingers. However, I have to admit I was flummoxed last week on the Michael Coren Show when National Citizens Coalition (NCC) President Peter Coleman began singing the praises of my friend Buzz Hargrove.
Apparently, Buzz, who leads the Canadian Auto Workers Union (CAW), had just given a ringing endorsement to Conservative Environment Minister John Baird's so-called Green Plan. Coleman could hardly contain himself, effusively praising "Buzz's sensible approach to the environment." His praise was all the more astonishing given that the NCC is launching a newspaper and radio ad campaign against Hargrove in the run-up to the next federal election.
Their web site claims, "Hargrove wants to destroy the free market system: He wants to destroy our heritage, he wants to transform Canada into a second-rate socialist state." Quite frankly, they haven't thought this one through. I say that because one would have to be a mental gymnast to keep track of the myriad positions Buzz has spun in the past couple of years."
Amazing.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
I didn't say it
Liberty is Good, has some interesting comments about a recent blog posting of a certain unnamed public policy group.
Check it out.
Check it out.
What's Right
A friend sent me a little sign which I now have posted over my computer, because it expresses my core belief.
Here's what it says:
"IT'S NOT WHO IS RIGHT, BUT WHAT IS RIGHT"
That's a maxim we should all remember.
Here's what it says:
"IT'S NOT WHO IS RIGHT, BUT WHAT IS RIGHT"
That's a maxim we should all remember.
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Green Faux Pas
Yesterday I noted that lots of media exposure combined with political inexperience was a bad combination.
I was referring to Justin Trudeau, but the same maxim works for Green Party leader Elizabeth May.
So far, the media has given May more or less a free pass, because a) she is new on the scene and b) she represents a trendy left-wing cause.
But little by little May has shown herself to be something less than an astute politician and sooner or later it's going to cost her.
Her ill-considered alliance with the Liberal Party, the indecisive way she handled the Kevin Potvin affair, for instance, have both take the lustre off her image.
And now she reportedly told a church audience that Stephen Harper's plan to deal with global warming as "worse than Neville Chamberlain's appeasement of the Nazis."
Isn't that just a wee bit over the top?
Yes I know many people think global warming is a threat, but as far as I know it hasn't resulted in the creation of concentration camps dedicated to genocide.
Environmentalists should be looking for a new spokesperson -- someone who actually has a clue would be nice.
I was referring to Justin Trudeau, but the same maxim works for Green Party leader Elizabeth May.
So far, the media has given May more or less a free pass, because a) she is new on the scene and b) she represents a trendy left-wing cause.
But little by little May has shown herself to be something less than an astute politician and sooner or later it's going to cost her.
Her ill-considered alliance with the Liberal Party, the indecisive way she handled the Kevin Potvin affair, for instance, have both take the lustre off her image.
And now she reportedly told a church audience that Stephen Harper's plan to deal with global warming as "worse than Neville Chamberlain's appeasement of the Nazis."
Isn't that just a wee bit over the top?
Yes I know many people think global warming is a threat, but as far as I know it hasn't resulted in the creation of concentration camps dedicated to genocide.
Environmentalists should be looking for a new spokesperson -- someone who actually has a clue would be nice.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Rumbles from the Right
Something seems to be happening in Conservative-land.
The natives are getting restless with Prime Minister Stephen Harper's swing to the left.
As mentioned earlier, my Post column has generated quite a response from disillusioned grassroots conservatives.
And now others are taking up the standard.
Western Standard publisher Ezra Levant notes in a Calgary Sun column today that the Conservative plan to ban light bulbs is "all baloney".
The Conservatives, says Levant are "alienating conservative voters who know it, too. And the environmentalists and rock stars who pretend to believe it will never vote for them anyway."
Columnist Lorne Gunter adds in today's National Post: "To understand just how deeply the Tories (I hesitate any longer to call them Conservatives) have drunk of the Green Kool-Aid, consider that their green plan, released last week, will cost Canadians as much as $8-billion a year in tax-funded spending, higher prices, pollution fines and reduced economic activity."
And finally here's what Professor Barry Cooper from the University of Calgary wrote in the Maclean's 50 comment section: "In his recent op-ed in the Ottawa Citizen, Environment Minister John Baird sounded more like David Anderson or even David Suzuki than a Conservative Minister of the Crown who - at least in principle - is connected to common sense."
I'll say it again, I hope the Prime Minister and his team are listening.
The natives are getting restless with Prime Minister Stephen Harper's swing to the left.
As mentioned earlier, my Post column has generated quite a response from disillusioned grassroots conservatives.
And now others are taking up the standard.
Western Standard publisher Ezra Levant notes in a Calgary Sun column today that the Conservative plan to ban light bulbs is "all baloney".
The Conservatives, says Levant are "alienating conservative voters who know it, too. And the environmentalists and rock stars who pretend to believe it will never vote for them anyway."
Columnist Lorne Gunter adds in today's National Post: "To understand just how deeply the Tories (I hesitate any longer to call them Conservatives) have drunk of the Green Kool-Aid, consider that their green plan, released last week, will cost Canadians as much as $8-billion a year in tax-funded spending, higher prices, pollution fines and reduced economic activity."
And finally here's what Professor Barry Cooper from the University of Calgary wrote in the Maclean's 50 comment section: "In his recent op-ed in the Ottawa Citizen, Environment Minister John Baird sounded more like David Anderson or even David Suzuki than a Conservative Minister of the Crown who - at least in principle - is connected to common sense."
I'll say it again, I hope the Prime Minister and his team are listening.
Trudeau Part 2
Congratulations to Justin Trudeau on winning the Liberal nomination.
Of course, the young Trudeau can expect quite a bit of media exposure over the next few months.
Everything he will say or do will make news.
The CBC will likely give him his own TV show to celebrate the "Second Coming."
And, of course, nothing Trudeau has done will merit any of this attention. He does have a famous last name; and he does support just about any trendy left wing cause out there, but that's about it.
Mind you all that coverage could end up being a double-edged sword for the Liberals.
Justin, after all, is inexperienced but full of himself -- and in politics that's a bad combination.
Of course, the young Trudeau can expect quite a bit of media exposure over the next few months.
Everything he will say or do will make news.
The CBC will likely give him his own TV show to celebrate the "Second Coming."
And, of course, nothing Trudeau has done will merit any of this attention. He does have a famous last name; and he does support just about any trendy left wing cause out there, but that's about it.
Mind you all that coverage could end up being a double-edged sword for the Liberals.
Justin, after all, is inexperienced but full of himself -- and in politics that's a bad combination.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
I got letters (OK really emails)
My column in yesterday's National Post on the Conservative Party selling out its principles triggered quite a response
Here's a sampling of some comments I received:
"I couldn't agree more. They (the Conservatives) have really gone off the rails in recent weeks, to the point that I am considering sitting out the next election ( and I am someone who used to take a very active part in the political process to the point of being on a riding executive board ). I hope a lot more people speak up about this. Maybe Mr. Harper and company will get the message before it's too late."
"Bang on, Gerry! Very well said."
It's great to get all this feedback.
Hope the Tory "braintrust" is listening.
Here's a sampling of some comments I received:
"I couldn't agree more. They (the Conservatives) have really gone off the rails in recent weeks, to the point that I am considering sitting out the next election ( and I am someone who used to take a very active part in the political process to the point of being on a riding executive board ). I hope a lot more people speak up about this. Maybe Mr. Harper and company will get the message before it's too late."
***
"The Conservative Party of Canada appears to have become just a bunch of socialists without the corruption."***
"I am greatly appreciating your efforts!"***
"The Liberals are now far more pro-business than Harper is.I voted and contributed to the CONservatives [emphasis on CON].NEVER AGAIN!!!! I'M DEDICATED TO THROWING THEM OUT."***
"I don't get it and feel, as you do, that there is little to no difference between the crooks we had out last time, and the new generation of crooks we're breeding at the moment."***
"Your column is right on the money. I have been a supporter of the Reform, Alliance and Conservative parties, financially and otherwise. But I can't support a party that wants to tell me what kind of light bulbs to use in my home."***
"I enjoyed your article 'Selling out true conservatism'. All I can say is it’s about time somebody comes out and says it. This conservative government seems no different to me then the liberal governments I have known my whole life."***
"I too am one of those who wonder how far the party will wander from principles in an efort to hold on to/gain power.. I keep hoping that it will shift back if it has a majority.. but grow less confident of that every day.."***
"Thanks for putting into words what I have been feeling lately. I must also be one of the principled conservatives because I am thinking Harper and the crew are starting to turn into Chretien and the crew."***
"Excellent commentary in today’s NP. It contained the same message I gave to my MP after the last budget. He seemed surprised that I wasn’t pleased with all the government announcements and even more surprised when I said 'please, don’t do me any favours'. The fiscally conservative (small c) has no representation and no alternative."***
"Bang on, Gerry! Very well said."
***
"Thank you for confirming that I am not alone in my disappointment with the new Conservatives. . . We need more writers like you to wake up the boys in policy that there is a great hunger to redress the imbalance that has our country close to total nannyism. Good on you."***
"Although I understand your conservative principles, I don't think you're being realistic . . .I think that most Conservative Canadians are very happy with Mr. Harper at the helm and want it to stay that way. I'm one of them and I don't think I'm deluded. I'm a realist."***
"Excellent..... Your division of a conservative party has an universal appeal."***
"AMEN! Once again, just like 15 years ago, I have a feeling I have no political home. Where do we go this time? Do we have to start another “reform” movement?"***
"For someone like yourself to be writing negatively about Harper is just what the Libranos love to read and quote and it really hurts to give them any comfort. You have to undersatand that NOTHING Harper could do would be worse than another run of Liberal rule."***
"Just don't start another Reform wing! Harper needs to get rid of Flaherty and replace him with a visionary, but he also needs that elusive majority. He's walking a tightrope fairly successfully, but there's something about him that causes Canadians to pull back (or am I just listening to the CBC too much?)"***
"Terrific piece that hit the bull's-eye on why Harper's government will end up failing . . .if you ever launch the 'Principled Conservative Party of Canada' you can count on my support."***
"How did this happen? It's almost like Stephen was kidnapped by Chretien and has been brainwashed. He now appears to be suffering from Stockholm Syndrome."***
It's great to get all this feedback.
Hope the Tory "braintrust" is listening.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Green Blues
About the best thing I can say about the Conservative government's "Green Plan" is that it will probably do less damage to the economy than a Liberal "Green Plan."
But that's cold comfort.
The fact is we are no longer debating whether we should implement a dopey treaty; we are now debating how much we should wreck the economy.
That's not a good road to go down.
No matter who wins that debate Canadians will be forced to shell out; and for what?
Let's face it, the Tory plan will do nothing to halt "global warming" and it will do nothing to impact on global weather conditions.
No plan would have an impact. We could de-industrialize the whole country and live in dark cold caves and it still wouldn't make any difference.
The only reason politcians are pushing this "Green" junk is to win votes.
It has nothing to do with the environment and everything to do with wooing the "Suzuki Nation."
Me I preferred the Liberal approach.
Talk about the importance of Kyoto but do nothing.
That's one Liberal policy I wish the Tories would copy.
But that's cold comfort.
The fact is we are no longer debating whether we should implement a dopey treaty; we are now debating how much we should wreck the economy.
That's not a good road to go down.
No matter who wins that debate Canadians will be forced to shell out; and for what?
Let's face it, the Tory plan will do nothing to halt "global warming" and it will do nothing to impact on global weather conditions.
No plan would have an impact. We could de-industrialize the whole country and live in dark cold caves and it still wouldn't make any difference.
The only reason politcians are pushing this "Green" junk is to win votes.
It has nothing to do with the environment and everything to do with wooing the "Suzuki Nation."
Me I preferred the Liberal approach.
Talk about the importance of Kyoto but do nothing.
That's one Liberal policy I wish the Tories would copy.
Selling out true conservatism
Make sure to pick up a copy of today's National Post.
I have an op-ed in it that's near and dear to my heart.
It debunks the myths tossed at me by those Tories who defend Prime Minister Stephen Harper's drift to the political left.
Myths such as Harper needs to go left because "Canada is a left-wing country" and "Conservatism is too scary".
The fact that some Conservatives actually believe those myths is sad; the fact that Harper seems to is just plain baffling.
Media Update:
I will be discussing my column and other issues on the radio shows Montreal Today with Joe Cannon at approximately 10:20 AM EST and on Adler Online at approximate 4:20 PM EST.
I have an op-ed in it that's near and dear to my heart.
It debunks the myths tossed at me by those Tories who defend Prime Minister Stephen Harper's drift to the political left.
Myths such as Harper needs to go left because "Canada is a left-wing country" and "Conservatism is too scary".
The fact that some Conservatives actually believe those myths is sad; the fact that Harper seems to is just plain baffling.
Media Update:
I will be discussing my column and other issues on the radio shows Montreal Today with Joe Cannon at approximately 10:20 AM EST and on Adler Online at approximate 4:20 PM EST.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
And Edison Worked so Hard
Looks like the army of discontented conservatives is growing.
Stephen Taylor -- blogger extraordinaire -- has an excellent posting blasting the Conservative government's decision to ban light bulbs.
Writes Taylor: "So, the government has decided to ban light bulbs to appease the growing hysteria that, some might say, stems from the left-wing need for global social and economic reconfiguration. Granted, the ban will have a measured benefit in the short term. But, for reasons I've outlined above, it is best for the consumer to make such a decision because the market has shown a great talent for addressing consumer needs, whatever they may be."
Exactly.
Stephen Taylor -- blogger extraordinaire -- has an excellent posting blasting the Conservative government's decision to ban light bulbs.
Writes Taylor: "So, the government has decided to ban light bulbs to appease the growing hysteria that, some might say, stems from the left-wing need for global social and economic reconfiguration. Granted, the ban will have a measured benefit in the short term. But, for reasons I've outlined above, it is best for the consumer to make such a decision because the market has shown a great talent for addressing consumer needs, whatever they may be."
Exactly.
Slinger Slings at me
Check out this column by the Toronto Star's Joey Slinger.
He says I am "dead wrong" when I condemn what he calls the "liberalization of the Harper Tories."
Essentially, Slinger argues Harper needs all the Liberal voters he can get to win an election and that means he must alienate his base of right wing "loons".
Which just goes to show what a wacky world we are living in these days: A Conservative Prime Minister is seeing eye to eye with a Star columnist.
He says I am "dead wrong" when I condemn what he calls the "liberalization of the Harper Tories."
Essentially, Slinger argues Harper needs all the Liberal voters he can get to win an election and that means he must alienate his base of right wing "loons".
Which just goes to show what a wacky world we are living in these days: A Conservative Prime Minister is seeing eye to eye with a Star columnist.
Ban the bans
Am I wrong, or does the sole business of government these days consist of banning things.
Think of it.
Government bans smoking.
It bans guns.
It bans pitbulls.
Now the Conservative government wants to ban light bulbs!
In the process, of course, what they are really doing is banning our freedoms.
Think of it.
Government bans smoking.
It bans guns.
It bans pitbulls.
Now the Conservative government wants to ban light bulbs!
In the process, of course, what they are really doing is banning our freedoms.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Quote of the day
"Your money does not cause my poverty. Refusal to believe this is at the bottom of most bad economic thinking." P.J. O'Rourke
Painful Taxes
Kudos to the Canadian Taxpayers Federation for coming up with a brilliant poll question.
The CTF recently asked respondents, "Which is more unpleasant a root canal or a tax audit?"
Forty-seven percent of those surveyed responded “root canal” and 38% said a “tax audit".
I feel queasy thinking about either one.
Oh yeah, the CTF poll also revealed 67 percent of Canadians believe they will not personally benefit from what tax relief there was in the latest federal budget.
See more details here.
The CTF recently asked respondents, "Which is more unpleasant a root canal or a tax audit?"
Forty-seven percent of those surveyed responded “root canal” and 38% said a “tax audit".
I feel queasy thinking about either one.
Oh yeah, the CTF poll also revealed 67 percent of Canadians believe they will not personally benefit from what tax relief there was in the latest federal budget.
See more details here.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
TV or not TV
In case you haven't heard, this is "Turn-Off TV Week".
We are all supposed to turn off our TV sets and computers and enjoy the real world!
Yuck.
Anyway according to the chronic do-gooders behind this program, TV is bad because:
*"On average, children in the US will spend more time in front of the television (1,023 hours) than in school this year (900 hours)". -- They say that like it's a bad thing.
* "Forty percent of Americans frequently or always watch television during dinner." -- What we really need are TVs in the washroom.
* As US Surgeon General Dr. David Satcher said at the Kick Off of TV-Turnoff Week 2001, "We are raising the most overweight generation of youngsters in American history...This week is about saving lives." --- Hmm, that's right kids stop watching TV and go out and play in the traffic.
But seriously this anti-TV campaign is a swell idea.
And I would defintitely take part, but I just have to find out if Lilly will forgive Daniel for his porn addiction on the Young and the Restless!
We are all supposed to turn off our TV sets and computers and enjoy the real world!
Yuck.
Anyway according to the chronic do-gooders behind this program, TV is bad because:
*"On average, children in the US will spend more time in front of the television (1,023 hours) than in school this year (900 hours)". -- They say that like it's a bad thing.
* "Forty percent of Americans frequently or always watch television during dinner." -- What we really need are TVs in the washroom.
* As US Surgeon General Dr. David Satcher said at the Kick Off of TV-Turnoff Week 2001, "We are raising the most overweight generation of youngsters in American history...This week is about saving lives." --- Hmm, that's right kids stop watching TV and go out and play in the traffic.
But seriously this anti-TV campaign is a swell idea.
And I would defintitely take part, but I just have to find out if Lilly will forgive Daniel for his porn addiction on the Young and the Restless!
Censoring the Net
Have you heard about the recently introduced private members bill C-427?
It's called the "Clean Internet Act" but "Censorship Internet Act" would be more fitting.
This proposed bill would give the federal government sweeping new powers to control the flow of information through cyberspace.
Dr. Michael Geist has more on this bill here.
Now what's really weird about all this, is that Bill C-427 was introduced by Joy Smith, a Conservative MP!
I thought Conservatives were supposed to be about promoting individual freedom.
Mind you, 20 Conservative MPs were also sympathetic to Bill C-257 which would have given dangerous new powers to union bosses.
It just goes to show, that many in the Conservative Party just don't understand conservatism.
It's called the "Clean Internet Act" but "Censorship Internet Act" would be more fitting.
This proposed bill would give the federal government sweeping new powers to control the flow of information through cyberspace.
Dr. Michael Geist has more on this bill here.
Now what's really weird about all this, is that Bill C-427 was introduced by Joy Smith, a Conservative MP!
I thought Conservatives were supposed to be about promoting individual freedom.
Mind you, 20 Conservative MPs were also sympathetic to Bill C-257 which would have given dangerous new powers to union bosses.
It just goes to show, that many in the Conservative Party just don't understand conservatism.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
The Real Stephen Harper
The Ottawa Citizen has an indepth piece today which speculates on what a Harper majority government would be like.
The article notes:
Check it out.
The article notes:
I guess I am one of the former "right-wing allies" because the writer quotes me quite a bit in the article.In his first 15 months as prime minister, Mr. Harper has governed more like a cautious centrist: rolling out a big-spending budget aimed at middle-income families, reaching out to moderate Red Tories in his caucus, and appealing to "soft" nationalists in Quebec. The difference has been so stark, in fact, that former right-wing allies are accusing him of selling out to the political left.
Check it out.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Sic Transit Gloria
Politics is an odd business.
Just ask Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
A few weeks ago, the media was suggesting he was almost a sure bet to win a majority government.
Now, after a few polls show his political star isn't rising as fast as anticipated, the Toronto Star is openly musing about Harper's possible successors.
That's a bit premature.
But what the heck, if somebody were to ask me who should replace Harper, I'd say Industry Minister Maxime Bernier.
Bernier has done a great job in cabinet and more importantly, he is a true blue conservative.
And one of my female friends once described Bernier as "handsome, tall and charming and well-dressed," and added she was "tired of being governed by ugly people! Bring back the JFKs! Bring back the John Turners! Bring back the Bibi Netanyahus!"
So there's another reason to support Bernier.
Just ask Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
A few weeks ago, the media was suggesting he was almost a sure bet to win a majority government.
Now, after a few polls show his political star isn't rising as fast as anticipated, the Toronto Star is openly musing about Harper's possible successors.
That's a bit premature.
But what the heck, if somebody were to ask me who should replace Harper, I'd say Industry Minister Maxime Bernier.
Bernier has done a great job in cabinet and more importantly, he is a true blue conservative.
And one of my female friends once described Bernier as "handsome, tall and charming and well-dressed," and added she was "tired of being governed by ugly people! Bring back the JFKs! Bring back the John Turners! Bring back the Bibi Netanyahus!"
So there's another reason to support Bernier.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Kyoto Klash
Yesterday the Conservative government released an independent economic study which says if we implement the Kyoto Accord the economy will suffer a recession.
Green Party leader Elizabeth May called the study "alarmist".
This from a woman who for the past year has been crisscrossing the country fomenting climate change hysteria, with predictions along the lines of:
* The Western Prairies will soon be home to roaming bands of heat-crazed camels.
* In a few months glaciers will push Toronto into Lake Ontario.
* Hurricanes the size of Jupiter will flatten the Rockies.
Yeah if anybody knows about alarmism it's Elizabeth May.
Green Party leader Elizabeth May called the study "alarmist".
This from a woman who for the past year has been crisscrossing the country fomenting climate change hysteria, with predictions along the lines of:
* The Western Prairies will soon be home to roaming bands of heat-crazed camels.
* In a few months glaciers will push Toronto into Lake Ontario.
* Hurricanes the size of Jupiter will flatten the Rockies.
Yeah if anybody knows about alarmism it's Elizabeth May.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Me and the Last Angry Man
Listen to me tonight at about 7:30 PM EST, as I am interviewed on the Last Angry Man radio program with Beryl Wajsman.
Creating jobs
The quote of the day:
"When the GOVERNMENT spends money, it creates jobs; whereas when the money is left in the hands of TAXPAYERS, God only knows what they do with it. Bake it into pies, probably. Anything to avoid creating jobs." -- Dave Barry
"When the GOVERNMENT spends money, it creates jobs; whereas when the money is left in the hands of TAXPAYERS, God only knows what they do with it. Bake it into pies, probably. Anything to avoid creating jobs." -- Dave Barry
Integrity in Politics
Toronto Sun Money Editor Linda Leatherdale has an excellent column today taking to task the undemocratic shenanigans associated with political floor crossers.
(One of the excellent things about this column is that it quotes me.)
Anyway, Leatherdale notes that Progressive Conservative leader John Tory seems ready to decree former Liberal MPP Tim Peterson will be his candidate in the riding of Mississauga South.
And no there will be no nomination fight. The riding will apparently be handed to Peterson on a silver platter.
Leatherdale writes: "what's not fair is how three quality candidates are being shut out of the nomination process in Mississauga South after spending money, pounding the pavement and lining PC coffers by selling memberships. One, Effie Triantafilopoulos, who insiders say had Tory's blessings to run in the riding, even quit her job as CEO of Save the Children Canada. "
Whatever happened to principle in politics?
(One of the excellent things about this column is that it quotes me.)
Anyway, Leatherdale notes that Progressive Conservative leader John Tory seems ready to decree former Liberal MPP Tim Peterson will be his candidate in the riding of Mississauga South.
And no there will be no nomination fight. The riding will apparently be handed to Peterson on a silver platter.
Leatherdale writes: "what's not fair is how three quality candidates are being shut out of the nomination process in Mississauga South after spending money, pounding the pavement and lining PC coffers by selling memberships. One, Effie Triantafilopoulos, who insiders say had Tory's blessings to run in the riding, even quit her job as CEO of Save the Children Canada. "
Whatever happened to principle in politics?
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
You're welcome Stephane
Who says the Liberals can't take advice?
About a week ago, I had a column in the Toronto Star suggesting the left-leaning Liberals needed to adopt a more fiscal conservative stance if they were to have any hope of forming the next government.
Well lo and behold today's Globe and Mail reports, "In a change of tactics that marks a rethinking of Liberal political strategy, Stéphane Dion set up shop on Bay Street yesterday to accuse the Conservative government of handicapping Canadian business and making the country's corporations vulnerable to foreign takeovers."
OK Stephane, that first bit of advice was a freebie, but from now on I'm charging for my consulting services.
About a week ago, I had a column in the Toronto Star suggesting the left-leaning Liberals needed to adopt a more fiscal conservative stance if they were to have any hope of forming the next government.
Well lo and behold today's Globe and Mail reports, "In a change of tactics that marks a rethinking of Liberal political strategy, Stéphane Dion set up shop on Bay Street yesterday to accuse the Conservative government of handicapping Canadian business and making the country's corporations vulnerable to foreign takeovers."
OK Stephane, that first bit of advice was a freebie, but from now on I'm charging for my consulting services.
Me in the Maclean's 50
OK this is exciting.
I have just been inducted into "The Maclean’s 50."
And no that's not an elite military outfit.
It's actually a select group of Canadians who have the opportunity to comment directly on the magazine's online coverage of national affairs stories.
Others in The Maclean's 50 include people like Preston Manning, Allan Rock, Hugh Segal, Tom Flanagan, Steve Paikin, Lewis MacKenzie and a whole bunch
of others.
Clearly, it's kind of an august group, and I am happy to be among their number.
So be sure to read Maclean's online and watch for my brilliant comments.
I have just been inducted into "The Maclean’s 50."
And no that's not an elite military outfit.
It's actually a select group of Canadians who have the opportunity to comment directly on the magazine's online coverage of national affairs stories.
Others in The Maclean's 50 include people like Preston Manning, Allan Rock, Hugh Segal, Tom Flanagan, Steve Paikin, Lewis MacKenzie and a whole bunch
of others.
Clearly, it's kind of an august group, and I am happy to be among their number.
So be sure to read Maclean's online and watch for my brilliant comments.
Virginia Tech Tragedy
My friend Pierre Lemieux has some interesting thoughts on the horrendous massacre at Virginia Tech.
Join the Conspiracy
Next month I will be attending a Civitas conference in Halifax.
What's Civitas you ask?
Well, it's a society which exists to "promote and deepen understanding through the exchange of a wide range of political and economic, social, religious, cultural and philosophical ideas concerning the principles and traditions of a free and ordered society."
In other words, it provides a venue where conservatives of all stripes can meet to discuss issues , to argue and to socialize.
And one of the best things about it, is that you get to meet fellow conservatives/libertarians face-to-face.
Oh and Civitas, is also officially part of Canada's "Vast Right Wing Conspiracy."
Learn how to join here.
And if you do join, be sure to look me up in Halifax.
What's Civitas you ask?
Well, it's a society which exists to "promote and deepen understanding through the exchange of a wide range of political and economic, social, religious, cultural and philosophical ideas concerning the principles and traditions of a free and ordered society."
In other words, it provides a venue where conservatives of all stripes can meet to discuss issues , to argue and to socialize.
And one of the best things about it, is that you get to meet fellow conservatives/libertarians face-to-face.
Oh and Civitas, is also officially part of Canada's "Vast Right Wing Conspiracy."
Learn how to join here.
And if you do join, be sure to look me up in Halifax.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Beware of Belindaism
Toronto Sun editor Lorrie Goldstein has a great piece in today's paper entitled "Liberal? Tory? Who can tell?"
In it, Goldstein makes the point that Belinda Stronach relfects the "new face" of federal politics.
And it's true.
Stronach, who is leaving federal politics, never really stood for anything -- except gaining power.
Likewise, says Goldstein, our federal parties are ceasing to stand for anything.
That's why Belinda could so easily shift from the Conservative Party to the Liberal Party.
As Goldstein writes: "it's pretty hard these days to tell a Conservative from a Liberal."
In it, Goldstein makes the point that Belinda Stronach relfects the "new face" of federal politics.
And it's true.
Stronach, who is leaving federal politics, never really stood for anything -- except gaining power.
Likewise, says Goldstein, our federal parties are ceasing to stand for anything.
That's why Belinda could so easily shift from the Conservative Party to the Liberal Party.
As Goldstein writes: "it's pretty hard these days to tell a Conservative from a Liberal."
Saturday, April 14, 2007
New Internet Fad
I have just signed up on Facebook.
Ok I am still not sure how to make the best use of what I'm told is the hottest thing on the Internet.
But check it out and be sure to "sign my wall" or "become my friend."
Ok I am still not sure how to make the best use of what I'm told is the hottest thing on the Internet.
But check it out and be sure to "sign my wall" or "become my friend."
Friday, April 13, 2007
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Me in the Globe (Twice)
I have a column in today's Globe and Mail (sorry it's behind a firewall) lamenting the leftward drift of the federal Conservative Party.
My point is simple: conservatives need to pressure Prime Minister Stephen Harper to stick true to his principles, otherwise we might as well elect Liberals.
My column is mentioned in this news article, which also appears in today's Globe.
Media Upate:
I will be on Focus 980 at 11:15 AM EST to discuss my op-ed and Belinda Stronach's departure.
Will also be on CFRA radio at about 1:20 PM EST.
My point is simple: conservatives need to pressure Prime Minister Stephen Harper to stick true to his principles, otherwise we might as well elect Liberals.
My column is mentioned in this news article, which also appears in today's Globe.
Media Upate:
I will be on Focus 980 at 11:15 AM EST to discuss my op-ed and Belinda Stronach's departure.
Will also be on CFRA radio at about 1:20 PM EST.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Get Ready for Summer Liberty
My buddy Peter Jaworski says some nice things about me over at his blog.
And more importantly, he also has a special announcement about this year's Liberty Summer Seminar.
Check it out.
And more importantly, he also has a special announcement about this year's Liberty Summer Seminar.
Check it out.
The NCC and Me
The National Citizens Coalition discusses my termination on their blog, here are some of the posted comments:
* "The most cogent explanation of who you are or were with gerry Nichols was in the Toronto Star this morning where he writes about the failed dream of us Conservatives as we see Mr. Harper’s lack of action on our issues. Too bad that wasn’t done in previous months and years. Your exposure level needs a bit of a kick start."
Interesting, eh?
* "I really admired Gerry and his honesty and integrity. I have to be honest; this makes me very nervous. We need a strong independent voice to fight for the citizens against the excesses of big government. With the conservatives so obviously now leading that charge with the Liberals and the NDP and even the Greens following now we need that independent voice even more. I’m questioning now if I should have recently joined the NCC."
* "The recent treatment of Gerry Nichols is a disgrace. To publically humiliate a fine man like him who has been the face of NCC , and done so much to advance the cause of NCC is totally lacking in hunan decency and good judgment. I hope he gets a good lawyer. He deserves the best."* "The most cogent explanation of who you are or were with gerry Nichols was in the Toronto Star this morning where he writes about the failed dream of us Conservatives as we see Mr. Harper’s lack of action on our issues. Too bad that wasn’t done in previous months and years. Your exposure level needs a bit of a kick start."
Interesting, eh?
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Easter Present for the Liberals
Check out a column I wrote, which appears in today's Toronto Star.
Basically it's free political advice from "One of the Top Five Political Minds in the Country" to the Liberal Party of Canada.
Yeah, I know I shouldn't be helping the Liberals, but it's an Easter present.
Media Update:
I will be on the Gary Doyle Show at 2:30 PM EST .
Basically it's free political advice from "One of the Top Five Political Minds in the Country" to the Liberal Party of Canada.
Yeah, I know I shouldn't be helping the Liberals, but it's an Easter present.
Media Update:
I will be on the Gary Doyle Show at 2:30 PM EST .
Friday, April 06, 2007
I'll get by with a little help from my friends
If I've learned anything in the last couple of days, it's the importance of friendship.
Since my departure from the National Citizens Coalition, I have received an avalanche of calls and emails from so many friends and colleagues offering kind words of encouragement and support, that I can't even be properly depressed!!
I am so grateful to all of you for your warm wishes. It means a lot.
Here's a sampling of some comments:
Blog Update:
Here are some more blog mentions: At Home In Hespeler, Road Hammer, Corridors of Mind, Objects of My Interest, and BBS.
Happy Easter everybody!
Media Update:
I am scheduled to appear on The World Tonight with Rob Breakenridge at about 9:00 PM EST.
Since my departure from the National Citizens Coalition, I have received an avalanche of calls and emails from so many friends and colleagues offering kind words of encouragement and support, that I can't even be properly depressed!!
I am so grateful to all of you for your warm wishes. It means a lot.
Here's a sampling of some comments:
* "I’m sure you won’t be unemployed for long. With those rugged good looks…"
* "I have no doubt that whatever you choose to do next, it will be done with the same ass-kicking passion for liberty that has clearly driven your career."
* "The NCC is losing their best star!”
Blog Update:
Here are some more blog mentions: At Home In Hespeler, Road Hammer, Corridors of Mind, Objects of My Interest, and BBS.
Happy Easter everybody!
Media Update:
I am scheduled to appear on The World Tonight with Rob Breakenridge at about 9:00 PM EST.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Post-NCC Update
Well its been 24 hours since the axe fell.
Here is what they are saying about my demise over at the Toronto Star and at the Globe and Mail.
It hasn't been an easy time for me, so I want to thank all of you out there who have been sending me words of encouragement.
It helps.
Media Update:
I will appear on Mike Duffy Live this afternoon somewhere between 5 and 6 PM.
Here is what they are saying about my demise over at the Toronto Star and at the Globe and Mail.
It hasn't been an easy time for me, so I want to thank all of you out there who have been sending me words of encouragement.
It helps.
Media Update:
I will appear on Mike Duffy Live this afternoon somewhere between 5 and 6 PM.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Farewell NCC
This is the hardest postings I have ever had to make.
You see, I am announcing that I no longer work for the National Citizens Coalition.
After 22 years, the NCC and I are going our separate ways.
I am proud of the work I did there over the years, helping to transform it into Canada's top organization for the defence of our economic and political freedoms.
So many battles, so many campaigns.
I am also proud that I always put principle first.
And one of the best things about working for the NCC, was having the chance to meet so many conservatives/libertarians who shared my love of freedom.
Oh well nothing lasts forever I guess.
So it's off to my next challenge.
The fight for freedom must go on.
You see, I am announcing that I no longer work for the National Citizens Coalition.
After 22 years, the NCC and I are going our separate ways.
I am proud of the work I did there over the years, helping to transform it into Canada's top organization for the defence of our economic and political freedoms.
So many battles, so many campaigns.
I am also proud that I always put principle first.
And one of the best things about working for the NCC, was having the chance to meet so many conservatives/libertarians who shared my love of freedom.
Oh well nothing lasts forever I guess.
So it's off to my next challenge.
The fight for freedom must go on.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
In For a Penny In for a Coyne
Andrew Coyne is one of Canada's brightest and most perceptive political commentators.
And it's rare that I disagree with him.
But one of those rare occasions occurred yesterday, when I read a posting on his blog in which he complains about the Conservative Party's anti-Liberal attack ads, which he calls "manipulative, inflammatory and tendentious."
Now I happen to think so-called "attack ads" are a legitimate weapon in any political party's arsenal.
So I posted this comment on his blog: "Memo to AC: Politics is a bloodsport, it's about time the Tories started fighting fire with fire."
In a posting today, Coyne replies: "Oh, but I forgot . . . .`politics is a bloodsport,' and this sort of thing just goes with the territory. Fair enough, I suppose: but doesn't anybody want to change politics any more?"
Now I am not sure what Coyne means by this.
Change it how exactly? By banning tough and hard hitting ads?
That would infringe on free expression.
By one side unilaterally declaring it won't use "negative ads"?
The Tories tried that "taking a knife to a gunfight" approach in the 2004 election and they lost out to the Liberals who had no compulsion about employing "manipulative, inflammatory and tendentious" ads.
The fact is, "negative ads", if used properly, work.
And there is nothing wrong morally with using them.
Democracy, by its very nature, is a messy, rough and tumble business --- it always has been and, I suspect, it always will be.
It doesn't need to be changed.
And it's rare that I disagree with him.
But one of those rare occasions occurred yesterday, when I read a posting on his blog in which he complains about the Conservative Party's anti-Liberal attack ads, which he calls "manipulative, inflammatory and tendentious."
Now I happen to think so-called "attack ads" are a legitimate weapon in any political party's arsenal.
So I posted this comment on his blog: "Memo to AC: Politics is a bloodsport, it's about time the Tories started fighting fire with fire."
In a posting today, Coyne replies: "Oh, but I forgot . . . .`politics is a bloodsport,' and this sort of thing just goes with the territory. Fair enough, I suppose: but doesn't anybody want to change politics any more?"
Now I am not sure what Coyne means by this.
Change it how exactly? By banning tough and hard hitting ads?
That would infringe on free expression.
By one side unilaterally declaring it won't use "negative ads"?
The Tories tried that "taking a knife to a gunfight" approach in the 2004 election and they lost out to the Liberals who had no compulsion about employing "manipulative, inflammatory and tendentious" ads.
The fact is, "negative ads", if used properly, work.
And there is nothing wrong morally with using them.
Democracy, by its very nature, is a messy, rough and tumble business --- it always has been and, I suspect, it always will be.
It doesn't need to be changed.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Prepare for Glory
Today is the most important day of the year: Opening Day.
And if you have to ask "Opening day of what?", then you and I clearly don't have much in common.
Of course, I mean it's time to get ready for another season of that most perfect of sports: baseball.
And yes baseball is still the perfect game despite all the problems associated with it: steroids, interleague play and wild card teams.
As Bill Veeck once said, "Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world.
If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can't get you off."
Anyway, in honour of opening day, here is my list of top five baseball movies:
And if you have to ask "Opening day of what?", then you and I clearly don't have much in common.
Of course, I mean it's time to get ready for another season of that most perfect of sports: baseball.
And yes baseball is still the perfect game despite all the problems associated with it: steroids, interleague play and wild card teams.
As Bill Veeck once said, "Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world.
If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can't get you off."
Anyway, in honour of opening day, here is my list of top five baseball movies:
And of course, what opening day would be complete without one of the greatest comedy routines of all time.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Insults Galore
Have you ever been in an argument with somebody and got the worse of it because you lacked the proper put down?
Me too.
So when I saw a book called 2000 Insults for all Occasions at the bi-annual Oakville library book sale (where they sell books for something like 10 cents a pound) I snapped it up.
According to the blurb on the back of the book it's jam-packed with "on-the-spot ammunition that will annihilate your antagonist with the squelch of the party!"
Oh boy, I can't wait for some wise guy to take me on because now I can sting him with zingers like these:
Upon closer examination, I see this book was published in 1965; maybe people were easier to insult back then.
Me too.
So when I saw a book called 2000 Insults for all Occasions at the bi-annual Oakville library book sale (where they sell books for something like 10 cents a pound) I snapped it up.
According to the blurb on the back of the book it's jam-packed with "on-the-spot ammunition that will annihilate your antagonist with the squelch of the party!"
Oh boy, I can't wait for some wise guy to take me on because now I can sting him with zingers like these:
- You got a fat chance to get me sore -- and a head to match!
- While you don't get yourself X-rayed to see what people see in you.
- I don't know what makes you tick, but I hope it's a time bomb.
- I can't think what I will do without you, but it's worth a try.
- Don't you ever get tired of having yourself around?
Upon closer examination, I see this book was published in 1965; maybe people were easier to insult back then.
Sexiest Man Alive
Hey, I just got some exciting news.
People magazine is voting me "The Sexiest Man Alive" for 2007.
What an honour!
Ha, ha.
Just kidding. It's just my little April Fools Day joke.
Bet I really had you going there for a while.
People magazine is voting me "The Sexiest Man Alive" for 2007.
What an honour!
Ha, ha.
Just kidding. It's just my little April Fools Day joke.
Bet I really had you going there for a while.
Friday, March 30, 2007
American Frontrunners Slowing Down
For all you out there who are interested in American politics I just got a news release from McLaughlin and Associates, which details a recent poll they have conducted.
Here it is:
Upon comparison of our latest national poll results with the results of our November, 2006 post-election survey, it appears that the early start to the Presidential campaign has weakened the popularity of the presumed frontrunners.
-- Hillary Clinton now has a net unfavorable rating: 42%, favorable, 48% unfavorable.
-- John McCain’s net popularity has fallen 31 points from a favorable rating of 61% favorable, 21% unfavorable; to only 43% favorable while his unfavorable rating increased to 34%.
-- Rudy Giuliani has had similar popular decline where his net rating fell 35 points from a 63% favorable rating, 17% unfavorable rating; to 46% favorable, 35% unfavorable.
-- Although Mitt Romney is still not as well known, he has slipped from an overall positive rating to a net negative rating from favorable 17%, unfavorable 12%; to 20% favorable and 24% unfavorable.
-- In November we did not ask about Barack Obama’s favorable rating (although that poll did capture his close second place standing behind Senator Clinton on the ballot). Senator Obama appears to have the best ratio of positives to negatives among the current frontrunners: favorable 47%, unfavorable 23%.
Examining the decline of popularity among the frontrunners partisan polarization is the leading reason for the decline. However, there is also erosion within each candidate’s own political party. It seems that the early start to the primary campaign is already taking a toll on the frontrunners and there is currently opportunity for challengers.
In the Democratic primary, Hillary Clinton retains her lead over Barack Obama:
Democrats and Independents: Hillary Clinton: 26% Barack Obama: 18% Al Gore: 11% John Edwards: 11%
Democrats only: Hillary Clinton: 31% Barack Obama: 20% Al Gore: 12% John Edwards: 12%
However, Senator Obama remains strong with liberal Democrats (Clinton 30%, Obama 24%) and has taken the lead among African-Americans (Obama 31%, Clinton 22%).
Since November, in the Republican primary for President, while John McCain has fallen, Rudy Giuliani has assumed the lead:
Republicans and Independents: Rudy Giuliani: 29% John McCain: 19% Newt Gingrich: 7% Fred Thompson: 6%
Mitt Romney: 5%
Republicans only: Rudy Giuliani: 30% John McCain: 20% Newt Gingrich: 10% Fred Thompson: 8%
Mitt Romney: 5%
However, among the conservative Republicans who account for nearly two-thirds of their party’s primary voters, there appears to be jockeying for a conservative challenger to emerge. Former Speaker Newt Gingrich (11%), Senator Fred Thompson (9%), and Mitt Romney (7%) show significant support. It means that one strong conservative challenger could emerge to be a frontrunner.
Regarding the potential general election contests among the frontrunners, both Mayor Giuliani and Senator McCain, have fallen from decisive leads to much closer races against Hillary Clinton:
McCain: 44%
Clinton: 38%
Giuliani: 42%
Clinton: 40%
There is now a significant level of undecided voters. Against Barack Obama, the undecided vote is even larger.
McCain: 38%
Obama: 39%
Giuliani: 40%
Obama: 38%
Here it is:
Upon comparison of our latest national poll results with the results of our November, 2006 post-election survey, it appears that the early start to the Presidential campaign has weakened the popularity of the presumed frontrunners.
-- Hillary Clinton now has a net unfavorable rating: 42%, favorable, 48% unfavorable.
-- John McCain’s net popularity has fallen 31 points from a favorable rating of 61% favorable, 21% unfavorable; to only 43% favorable while his unfavorable rating increased to 34%.
-- Rudy Giuliani has had similar popular decline where his net rating fell 35 points from a 63% favorable rating, 17% unfavorable rating; to 46% favorable, 35% unfavorable.
-- Although Mitt Romney is still not as well known, he has slipped from an overall positive rating to a net negative rating from favorable 17%, unfavorable 12%; to 20% favorable and 24% unfavorable.
-- In November we did not ask about Barack Obama’s favorable rating (although that poll did capture his close second place standing behind Senator Clinton on the ballot). Senator Obama appears to have the best ratio of positives to negatives among the current frontrunners: favorable 47%, unfavorable 23%.
Examining the decline of popularity among the frontrunners partisan polarization is the leading reason for the decline. However, there is also erosion within each candidate’s own political party. It seems that the early start to the primary campaign is already taking a toll on the frontrunners and there is currently opportunity for challengers.
In the Democratic primary, Hillary Clinton retains her lead over Barack Obama:
Democrats and Independents: Hillary Clinton: 26% Barack Obama: 18% Al Gore: 11% John Edwards: 11%
Democrats only: Hillary Clinton: 31% Barack Obama: 20% Al Gore: 12% John Edwards: 12%
However, Senator Obama remains strong with liberal Democrats (Clinton 30%, Obama 24%) and has taken the lead among African-Americans (Obama 31%, Clinton 22%).
Since November, in the Republican primary for President, while John McCain has fallen, Rudy Giuliani has assumed the lead:
Republicans and Independents: Rudy Giuliani: 29% John McCain: 19% Newt Gingrich: 7% Fred Thompson: 6%
Mitt Romney: 5%
Republicans only: Rudy Giuliani: 30% John McCain: 20% Newt Gingrich: 10% Fred Thompson: 8%
Mitt Romney: 5%
However, among the conservative Republicans who account for nearly two-thirds of their party’s primary voters, there appears to be jockeying for a conservative challenger to emerge. Former Speaker Newt Gingrich (11%), Senator Fred Thompson (9%), and Mitt Romney (7%) show significant support. It means that one strong conservative challenger could emerge to be a frontrunner.
Regarding the potential general election contests among the frontrunners, both Mayor Giuliani and Senator McCain, have fallen from decisive leads to much closer races against Hillary Clinton:
McCain: 44%
Clinton: 38%
Giuliani: 42%
Clinton: 40%
There is now a significant level of undecided voters. Against Barack Obama, the undecided vote is even larger.
McCain: 38%
Obama: 39%
Giuliani: 40%
Obama: 38%
No Spring Vote
The Quebec election results, the big-spending budget and some interesting polls have all fed speculation that an election is imminent
Well a few weeks ago, I said there would be no Spring election and I still stand by those words.
It would just be too much of a risk for the Tories to go right now.
Also, the government faces the problem engineering of its own downfall, which as journalist/author Paul Tuns notes is no easy task given the dynamics of the House these days.
Says Paul: "It just seems improbable that no matter how much Harper wants an election that the other parties would co-operate with his plan to attain a Conservative majority."
And if we don't have an election in the Spring, it's extremely unlikely there will be one in the Fall.
So my prediction: We go to the polls in Spring of '08.
Remember you heard it here first.
Well a few weeks ago, I said there would be no Spring election and I still stand by those words.
It would just be too much of a risk for the Tories to go right now.
Also, the government faces the problem engineering of its own downfall, which as journalist/author Paul Tuns notes is no easy task given the dynamics of the House these days.
Says Paul: "It just seems improbable that no matter how much Harper wants an election that the other parties would co-operate with his plan to attain a Conservative majority."
And if we don't have an election in the Spring, it's extremely unlikely there will be one in the Fall.
So my prediction: We go to the polls in Spring of '08.
Remember you heard it here first.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
What's Going on in Quebec?
Lots of analysis is going on in the media these days as to what's wrong with the Parti Quebecois and more generally with the separatist movement in Quebec.
My view?
Well it seems to me the problem with the separatist political movement in Quebec isn't that it's separatist, but that it's Marxist.
In other words, both the PQ and the Bloc Quebecois are pushing a tired, left-wing agenda that's falling out of touch with the realities of the modern world.
The Quebecois are ready to move on.
For another analysis on what the Quebec election results mean politically, check out this excellent column by Beryl Wajsman.
I met Beryl on a recent trip to Montreal and have had appeared on his radio show -- The Last Angry Man -- and I can tell you he is a savvy political thinker as well as a fascinating conversationalist.
On the Quebec election he writes:
"Dumont talked about the hopes of working people, the elderly and young families trying to make ends meet on constricting incomes and trying to make their dreams realities despite restrictive rule. The irony was not lost on the dozen or so reporters I was with. The 'left-wing' Boisclair played the exclusionary ethnic card of his cultural “uberclass”. The supposedly 'right-wing' Dumont championed the interests of an economic underclass. Dumont raised hopes he dare not betray."
My view?
Well it seems to me the problem with the separatist political movement in Quebec isn't that it's separatist, but that it's Marxist.
In other words, both the PQ and the Bloc Quebecois are pushing a tired, left-wing agenda that's falling out of touch with the realities of the modern world.
The Quebecois are ready to move on.
For another analysis on what the Quebec election results mean politically, check out this excellent column by Beryl Wajsman.
I met Beryl on a recent trip to Montreal and have had appeared on his radio show -- The Last Angry Man -- and I can tell you he is a savvy political thinker as well as a fascinating conversationalist.
On the Quebec election he writes:
"Dumont talked about the hopes of working people, the elderly and young families trying to make ends meet on constricting incomes and trying to make their dreams realities despite restrictive rule. The irony was not lost on the dozen or so reporters I was with. The 'left-wing' Boisclair played the exclusionary ethnic card of his cultural “uberclass”. The supposedly 'right-wing' Dumont championed the interests of an economic underclass. Dumont raised hopes he dare not betray."
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Bad Liberal Spin
Liberal leader Stephane Dion needs a new spin doctor.
I say that because the Liberal Party spin on the Quebec election is really lame.
Essentially, Dion is denouncing the "intrusion" of Prime Minister Stephen Harper into the campaign, saying the way he linked additional limitations on federal spending powers to the results of the election was "blackmail."
This intervention, says Dion, tightened the race and distanced the Liberal Party from majority support.
Is anybody really going to buy this nonsense?
Seems to me, the majority of Canadians are pretty happy with an election result which relegates the separatists to third place.
And if Harper's "intrusion" helped to bring this about, so much the better.
Perhaps all this is incomprehensible to Dion and the Liberals who seem to think everyone is rooting for Liberal majorities.
I say that because the Liberal Party spin on the Quebec election is really lame.
Essentially, Dion is denouncing the "intrusion" of Prime Minister Stephen Harper into the campaign, saying the way he linked additional limitations on federal spending powers to the results of the election was "blackmail."
This intervention, says Dion, tightened the race and distanced the Liberal Party from majority support.
Is anybody really going to buy this nonsense?
Seems to me, the majority of Canadians are pretty happy with an election result which relegates the separatists to third place.
And if Harper's "intrusion" helped to bring this about, so much the better.
Perhaps all this is incomprehensible to Dion and the Liberals who seem to think everyone is rooting for Liberal majorities.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Blackout Ruling
I have a column in today's Calgary Herald, examining the Supreme Court's terrible ruling of a few weeks ago which upheld the election blackout law.
The Cost of Victory
A week before the Quebec election, Prime Minister Stephen Harper poured $3 billion into La Belle Province.
The PM says he did this to end the "fiscal imbalance" but many believe the real goal was to help Jean Charest's Liberals defeat the nasty separatists.
And if that was his goal, it worked --- the $3 billion ensured Charest won 48 seats, which works out to about $63 million per seat.
Good thing, Harper wasn't aiming for a Liberal majority -- that might have bankrupted the country.
Oh and please note, all you folks who think the Green movement is about to reshape our political culture.
The Quebec Green Party won a paltry four percent of the popular vote and no seats, in one of the most pro-environment province's in the country.
Watch for their federal cousins to suffer the same fate in the next national election.
Update:
I modified this posting into a Letter to the Editor, which is published in today's National Post.
The PM says he did this to end the "fiscal imbalance" but many believe the real goal was to help Jean Charest's Liberals defeat the nasty separatists.
And if that was his goal, it worked --- the $3 billion ensured Charest won 48 seats, which works out to about $63 million per seat.
Good thing, Harper wasn't aiming for a Liberal majority -- that might have bankrupted the country.
Oh and please note, all you folks who think the Green movement is about to reshape our political culture.
The Quebec Green Party won a paltry four percent of the popular vote and no seats, in one of the most pro-environment province's in the country.
Watch for their federal cousins to suffer the same fate in the next national election.
Update:
I modified this posting into a Letter to the Editor, which is published in today's National Post.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Flaherty No Ronald Reagan
Check out a column I wrote, which appears in Sun Media papers today.
In it, I suggest the recent federal budget is a signal the Conservatives are heading down the wrong track.
And by that I mean, the Conservatives are ceasing to be conservatives.
In it, I suggest the recent federal budget is a signal the Conservatives are heading down the wrong track.
And by that I mean, the Conservatives are ceasing to be conservatives.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Another 300 Comment
Last night my son went to see the movie 300.
He loved it giving it a 9.3 out of 10. (He's very precise with his reviews.)
I mention this because it gives me another excuse to talk about the crazy political debate surrounding this movie.
The left wing, politically correct crowd hate it not because it's conservative (which it isn't) but simply because it's not liberal.
Here's how the film's director Zack Snyder responded:
"When someone in a movie says, ‘We’re going to fight for freedom,’ that’s now a dirty word, Europeans totally feel that way. If you mention democracy or freedom, you’re an imperialist or a fascist. That’s crazy to me.”
It's crazy to me too.
H/T Libertas
Friday, March 23, 2007
Election Prediction
Here is my fearless prediction for Monday's Quebec election:
Quebec: $3 billion
Canadian Taxpayers: O
Quebec: $3 billion
Canadian Taxpayers: O
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Who's Tory Now?
If the federal Conservatives keep acting like Liberals, the next thing you know they will be creating their own Sponsorship Program.
Oh wait a minute . . . it seems they are creating their own Sponsorship Program!!
Sigh.
Thanks to Janet Neilson for the tip.
Oh wait a minute . . . it seems they are creating their own Sponsorship Program!!
Sigh.
Thanks to Janet Neilson for the tip.
Ontario Budget Blues
Just got from doing a live interview on CHCH TV about the Ontario budget.
Ahh, live television -- is there anything worse?
First off I had to stand outside in the chilly wind for about an hour in one of those "remote" interviews where you stand staring at a lens, pretending you can see the host. And then the audio keeps going on and off, which makes for some awkard times.
Must have looked real bright standing on the TV screens with a quizzical look on my face.
Mind you, that look might have come from the Ontario budget itself --- which was kind of like a replay of the federal budget -- a few tax cuts sprinkled in with lots of left-wing spending.
The worst part: No tax cuts for the middle class.
I guess Premier Dalton needs the money in case he wants to give himself another big fat pay
raise.
Media Update: Will be talking about the Ontario budget on the Gary Doyle Show at about 12:05 PM EST.
Ahh, live television -- is there anything worse?
First off I had to stand outside in the chilly wind for about an hour in one of those "remote" interviews where you stand staring at a lens, pretending you can see the host. And then the audio keeps going on and off, which makes for some awkard times.
Must have looked real bright standing on the TV screens with a quizzical look on my face.
Mind you, that look might have come from the Ontario budget itself --- which was kind of like a replay of the federal budget -- a few tax cuts sprinkled in with lots of left-wing spending.
The worst part: No tax cuts for the middle class.
I guess Premier Dalton needs the money in case he wants to give himself another big fat pay
raise.
Media Update: Will be talking about the Ontario budget on the Gary Doyle Show at about 12:05 PM EST.
Good Riddance to Bill 257
Well the House of Commons did something right for a change.
Last night MPs voted down Bill C-257, which would have made it a crime for companies to hire replacement workers during a strike.
Simply put this Bill was a terrible idea.
If passed it would have undermined Canada's economy, given more powers to union bosses to cripple key infrastructure industries and infringed on the individual rights of all unionized employees.
That's why the National Citizens Coalition ran a media ad campaign to oppose this disaster in the making.
It's a good victory for the NCC and a victory for Canada.
Last night MPs voted down Bill C-257, which would have made it a crime for companies to hire replacement workers during a strike.
Simply put this Bill was a terrible idea.
If passed it would have undermined Canada's economy, given more powers to union bosses to cripple key infrastructure industries and infringed on the individual rights of all unionized employees.
That's why the National Citizens Coalition ran a media ad campaign to oppose this disaster in the making.
It's a good victory for the NCC and a victory for Canada.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Blackout Ruling Skewered
Bob Tarantino, who happens to be a lawyer, has an excellent legal analysis of last's weeks horrid Supreme Court ruling on the election black out law.
Key quote: "The majority decision is so poorly reasoned it almost beggars belief."
Key quote: "The majority decision is so poorly reasoned it almost beggars belief."
More Budget talk
I'm going to be a guest on the Rogers Cable TV Show Money Line tonight at 7:30 PM to discuss the federal budget with Toronto Sun business editor Linda Leatherdale.
Oh and here's more evidence the federal budget was a train wreck: Sheila Copps liked it.
Oh and here's more evidence the federal budget was a train wreck: Sheila Copps liked it.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Discussing the Budget with Duffy
Here's me on Mike Duffy Live this afternoon.I was discussing the federal budget with Tasha Kheiriddin. She thinks it's a smart political budget; I hate it.
You can see the segment here.
(Click the tab marked "Are the Tories Moving Left?")
Budget Reaction (It's Bad)
Some reactions to the budget:
"The $200-billion in program spending Mr. Flaherty has budgeted for this year works out to about $5,800 for every man, woman and child in Canada. Even adjusting for inflation and increases in population, that’s more than Paul Martin spent in his frantic last hours. It is more than the Mulroney government spent in its last days. It is more than the Trudeau government spent in the depths of the early 1980s recession. All of these past benchmarks of out-of-control spending must now be retired. Jim Flaherty has outdone them all." -- Andrew Coyne, the National Post.
"This (the budget) is so Liberal, the Grits should sue for breach for copyright" --- John Ibbitson, the Globe and Mail
"The federal budget delivered Monday by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty was conservative in name only. It increases the size and scope of activity undertaken by the federal government and relies largely on a host of activist economic policies rather than focusing on creating the right environment to encourage economic activity." -- Niels Veldhuis and Jason Clemens, the Fraser Institute.
Media Alert: I am going to appear on the Newsworld Program, Today this afternoon to discuss the budget.
Media Alert II: Will be on Mike Duffy Live to discuss the budget at 5:20 PM EST.
"The $200-billion in program spending Mr. Flaherty has budgeted for this year works out to about $5,800 for every man, woman and child in Canada. Even adjusting for inflation and increases in population, that’s more than Paul Martin spent in his frantic last hours. It is more than the Mulroney government spent in its last days. It is more than the Trudeau government spent in the depths of the early 1980s recession. All of these past benchmarks of out-of-control spending must now be retired. Jim Flaherty has outdone them all." -- Andrew Coyne, the National Post.
"This (the budget) is so Liberal, the Grits should sue for breach for copyright" --- John Ibbitson, the Globe and Mail
"The federal budget delivered Monday by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty was conservative in name only. It increases the size and scope of activity undertaken by the federal government and relies largely on a host of activist economic policies rather than focusing on creating the right environment to encourage economic activity." -- Niels Veldhuis and Jason Clemens, the Fraser Institute.
Media Alert: I am going to appear on the Newsworld Program, Today this afternoon to discuss the budget.
Media Alert II: Will be on Mike Duffy Live to discuss the budget at 5:20 PM EST.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Budget Blues
Somebody remind me again, who is running the federal government, Conservatives or Liberals?
I have to ask because today's budget sure looks like something the Liberals or maybe even the NDP could have concocted.
Yes, there were some targeted tax cuts for families and a few tax changes to help business, but overall this budget was all about one thing: SPENDING.
Conservatives were supposed to CUT spending; not increase it.
You can see the NCC news release on the budget here.
But what really gets me about today's budget speech is Finance Minister Jim Flaherty's comment about providing more funding to the Canada Revenue Agency to ensure "every company pays its fair share of tax."
Since when do Conservatives want to increase the government's efficiency when it comes to collecting taxes?
They have a $13 billion surplus for Pete's sake, isn't that enough?!
Talk about greedy.
Maybe it's time the Tories forgot about the politics and re-focused on the ideology.
They certainly need a refresher course in Conservatism 101.
Update:
Financial Post editor Terence Corcoran has more.
I have to ask because today's budget sure looks like something the Liberals or maybe even the NDP could have concocted.
Yes, there were some targeted tax cuts for families and a few tax changes to help business, but overall this budget was all about one thing: SPENDING.
Conservatives were supposed to CUT spending; not increase it.
You can see the NCC news release on the budget here.
But what really gets me about today's budget speech is Finance Minister Jim Flaherty's comment about providing more funding to the Canada Revenue Agency to ensure "every company pays its fair share of tax."
Since when do Conservatives want to increase the government's efficiency when it comes to collecting taxes?
They have a $13 billion surplus for Pete's sake, isn't that enough?!
Talk about greedy.
Maybe it's time the Tories forgot about the politics and re-focused on the ideology.
They certainly need a refresher course in Conservatism 101.
Update:
Financial Post editor Terence Corcoran has more.
Budget Fun
The best part about this afternoon's budget won't be the actual budget, but the Opposition Parties reaction to it.
The Opposition doesn't want an election right now, so there is no way they will vote against the government's fiscal plan, no matter how much they might hate it.
Consequently, the NDP, the Bloc, the Liberals will all have to pretend to like something -- anything -- in the budget.
The fun part will be watching them grit their teeth as they say nice things about the Tory plan.
This is where the spin doctors earn their money.
The Opposition doesn't want an election right now, so there is no way they will vote against the government's fiscal plan, no matter how much they might hate it.
Consequently, the NDP, the Bloc, the Liberals will all have to pretend to like something -- anything -- in the budget.
The fun part will be watching them grit their teeth as they say nice things about the Tory plan.
This is where the spin doctors earn their money.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Me on CBC
I am scheduled to appear on the CBC Newsworld program Weekend Edition to talk about my recent oped column in the Globe and Mail.
That's the one where I take the Harper government to task for its recent massive spending binge.
They tell me my segment will be air sometime after Noon EST - so adjust your schedule accordingly.
Update: My appearance on Newsworld has been rescheduled to between 3:00 and 3:30 PM EST.
Update II: Now I am not sure if I will ever be on Newsworld -- I may have been bumped, which is real nice since I gave up a restful Sunday morning to be on the show!!!
Update III: OK time to relax. I was just on. Phew.
That's the one where I take the Harper government to task for its recent massive spending binge.
They tell me my segment will be air sometime after Noon EST - so adjust your schedule accordingly.
Update: My appearance on Newsworld has been rescheduled to between 3:00 and 3:30 PM EST.
Update II: Now I am not sure if I will ever be on Newsworld -- I may have been bumped, which is real nice since I gave up a restful Sunday morning to be on the show!!!
Update III: OK time to relax. I was just on. Phew.
Persian Protests
Well it looks like a new "Danish Cartoon" controversy could be brewing.
This time some Iranians are upset with the depiction of ancient Persians in the blockbuster movie, 300.
An anti-300 website has even been set up which declares: "Driven by an admiration for arts, and united by a common concern about the barbaric and demonic portrayal of Persians in Frank Miller's graphic novel and the movie 300, we have come together to voice our objection in a uniquely artistic fashion".
Well before they get their "uniquely artistic" anger too far down the road, the anti-300 protesters should consider that most movie-goers probably have no clue that Iran was once called Persia.
Still I wonder if the Canadian and American establishment elites will soon be calling for this movie to be banned to show our cultural sensitivity.
Or maybe it's the fault of the movie's producers.
They should have followed the traditional Hollywood route and made a movie in which the Spartans were portrayed as imperialistic, war-mongers who slaughtered the innocent, peace-loving Persians simply to get their oil.
And if they could have blamed George Bush somehow that would have cinched at least a few academy award nominations.
Of course the movie is making buckets of money, which should offset any "uniquely artistic" objections.
This time some Iranians are upset with the depiction of ancient Persians in the blockbuster movie, 300.
An anti-300 website has even been set up which declares: "Driven by an admiration for arts, and united by a common concern about the barbaric and demonic portrayal of Persians in Frank Miller's graphic novel and the movie 300, we have come together to voice our objection in a uniquely artistic fashion".
Well before they get their "uniquely artistic" anger too far down the road, the anti-300 protesters should consider that most movie-goers probably have no clue that Iran was once called Persia.
Still I wonder if the Canadian and American establishment elites will soon be calling for this movie to be banned to show our cultural sensitivity.
Or maybe it's the fault of the movie's producers.
They should have followed the traditional Hollywood route and made a movie in which the Spartans were portrayed as imperialistic, war-mongers who slaughtered the innocent, peace-loving Persians simply to get their oil.
And if they could have blamed George Bush somehow that would have cinched at least a few academy award nominations.
Of course the movie is making buckets of money, which should offset any "uniquely artistic" objections.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Reaction to SCC Ruling
People are starting to react to yesterday's Supreme Court ruling upholding the election blackout law.
Mike Jenkinson, a Sun Media editor, notes in an editorial today: "The Supreme Court blew it yesterday, ruling against free speech and upholding an archaic law that is virtually unenforceable in our hi-tech world" and "The only thing this law will do is turn informed and techno-savvy Canadians into criminals. The Harper government should repeal this section of the Canada Elections Act immediately."
The Globe and Mail for its part says the chief effect of the ban is 'to stomp on the guarantee of free expression in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms."
And you can see some more of my comments in this Canwest News story.
The good news is Peter Van Loan, the Tory House leader in the Commons, has not shut the door on changing the law.
Said Van Loan, "it is open to Parliament to consider this. . . . We have the freedom to act if we decide to."
And the Tories should decide to act.
UPDATE:
Andrew Coyne has a good take on the ruling as well.
Mike Jenkinson, a Sun Media editor, notes in an editorial today: "The Supreme Court blew it yesterday, ruling against free speech and upholding an archaic law that is virtually unenforceable in our hi-tech world" and "The only thing this law will do is turn informed and techno-savvy Canadians into criminals. The Harper government should repeal this section of the Canada Elections Act immediately."
The Globe and Mail for its part says the chief effect of the ban is 'to stomp on the guarantee of free expression in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms."
And you can see some more of my comments in this Canwest News story.
The good news is Peter Van Loan, the Tory House leader in the Commons, has not shut the door on changing the law.
Said Van Loan, "it is open to Parliament to consider this. . . . We have the freedom to act if we decide to."
And the Tories should decide to act.
UPDATE:
Andrew Coyne has a good take on the ruling as well.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Media Update
As might be expected, I was pretty busy today doing media interviews on the Supreme Court's ruling on the blackout law.
As far as TV is concerned I was on the BNN program Squeeze Play, on CTV National News and on CTV Newsnet. Also appeared on CH@5:30 Live where I sparred a bit with Sheila Copps.
Did some radio too on this: The Richard Cloutier Show (CJOB Winniepg), Dave Rutherford Show (CHQR radio Calgary), the Gary Doyle Show (570 AM, Kitchener), Focus 980 (CHPL London) and the Mike Stafford Show (640 Toronto).
Also tonight I will be on Nighthawk (CJOB Winnipeg) to talk about my column in today's Globe and Mail.
As far as TV is concerned I was on the BNN program Squeeze Play, on CTV National News and on CTV Newsnet. Also appeared on CH@5:30 Live where I sparred a bit with Sheila Copps.
Did some radio too on this: The Richard Cloutier Show (CJOB Winniepg), Dave Rutherford Show (CHQR radio Calgary), the Gary Doyle Show (570 AM, Kitchener), Focus 980 (CHPL London) and the Mike Stafford Show (640 Toronto).
Also tonight I will be on Nighthawk (CJOB Winnipeg) to talk about my column in today's Globe and Mail.
Blackout Ruling a Disgrace
When the Supreme Court of Canada ruled Thursday to uphold the election blackout law (by a 5-4 margin) it took a stand that was both dangerous and ridiculous.
Dangerous because the Court (a body which exists to protect our freedoms) essentially ruled in favour of political censorship and ridiculous because it endorsed a law that's practically impossible to enforce.
Here's the background:
The law in question is Section 329 of the Canada Elections Act, which bans the "premature transmission" of election results.
Under this law it's an offence to transmit election results from parts of the country where the polls are closed to parts of the country where the polls are still open.
Computer software developer Paul Bryan thought it was a stupid law, that denied his right to free speech. So he challenged it in 2000 when he posted real time election results on his website.
Not long after, he was charged with violating the law and, with the financial support of the National Citizens Coalition, took his case to court.
And so after a six year legal battle, his case made it before the Supreme Court of Canada.
And unfortunately, he lost.
The court didn't apparently didn't care that section 329 infringed on free speech. Why? Because they believed it was a necessary infringement to safeguard what one Justice called "informational equality."
Yes apparently "informational equality" is an important right, more important even than the right to free speech, which just happens to be entrenched in the Charter.
Absolutely amazing.
Of course, what the Court was really saying was that Canadians need to be protected from political information. They need to be kept in the dark just in case voting results influence how they vote.
Never mind the fact, that there is no evidence to suggest allowing a free flow of political information on election night in any way causes any harm to our democratic process.
And if there is no harm, what's the justification for taking away a freedom?
The Court obviously sees itself not as the defender of Charter freedoms, but as a promoter of socialistic paternalism.
Very sad.
What also makes this ruling so insane, is that blackout laws are nearly impossible to enforce in this day and age of instantaneous communications.
Maybe it's a generational thing, but the Supreme Court Justices don't seem to understand the reach of the Internet, or blogs or satellite TV and radio.
People who want to get information on election night will find ways to get it no matter what the courts or the politicians say.
Unless of course, we want to move into the arena of China and Turkey where the Internet is tightly controlled and regulated.
Knowing this Court, that's entirely possible.
Mind you this is not the first time the Court has ruled against freedom. It also ruled in favour of election gag laws a few years ago.
It's part of a disturbing trend and one which should alarm all Canadians who cherish free speech.
Is the blackout fight over?
Well I hope the government will step up and do the right thing and repeal Section 329.
It might happen.
After all, when the NCC took on this case back in 2000 our president was none other than Stephen Harper.
Dangerous because the Court (a body which exists to protect our freedoms) essentially ruled in favour of political censorship and ridiculous because it endorsed a law that's practically impossible to enforce.
Here's the background:
The law in question is Section 329 of the Canada Elections Act, which bans the "premature transmission" of election results.
Under this law it's an offence to transmit election results from parts of the country where the polls are closed to parts of the country where the polls are still open.
Computer software developer Paul Bryan thought it was a stupid law, that denied his right to free speech. So he challenged it in 2000 when he posted real time election results on his website.
Not long after, he was charged with violating the law and, with the financial support of the National Citizens Coalition, took his case to court.
And so after a six year legal battle, his case made it before the Supreme Court of Canada.
And unfortunately, he lost.
The court didn't apparently didn't care that section 329 infringed on free speech. Why? Because they believed it was a necessary infringement to safeguard what one Justice called "informational equality."
Yes apparently "informational equality" is an important right, more important even than the right to free speech, which just happens to be entrenched in the Charter.
Absolutely amazing.
Of course, what the Court was really saying was that Canadians need to be protected from political information. They need to be kept in the dark just in case voting results influence how they vote.
Never mind the fact, that there is no evidence to suggest allowing a free flow of political information on election night in any way causes any harm to our democratic process.
And if there is no harm, what's the justification for taking away a freedom?
The Court obviously sees itself not as the defender of Charter freedoms, but as a promoter of socialistic paternalism.
Very sad.
What also makes this ruling so insane, is that blackout laws are nearly impossible to enforce in this day and age of instantaneous communications.
Maybe it's a generational thing, but the Supreme Court Justices don't seem to understand the reach of the Internet, or blogs or satellite TV and radio.
People who want to get information on election night will find ways to get it no matter what the courts or the politicians say.
Unless of course, we want to move into the arena of China and Turkey where the Internet is tightly controlled and regulated.
Knowing this Court, that's entirely possible.
Mind you this is not the first time the Court has ruled against freedom. It also ruled in favour of election gag laws a few years ago.
It's part of a disturbing trend and one which should alarm all Canadians who cherish free speech.
Is the blackout fight over?
Well I hope the government will step up and do the right thing and repeal Section 329.
It might happen.
After all, when the NCC took on this case back in 2000 our president was none other than Stephen Harper.
Spending Spree Hypocrisy
I have a column in today's Globe and Mail, examining the hypocricsy of politicians when it comes to money and politics.
On the one hand they decry money's influence and enact gag laws to regulate what private citizens can spend on politicking, but on the other hand they spend billions of tax dollars in pre-election binges.
Unfortunately the column is not on their website, but I will have it posted on the National Citizens Coalition site soon.
Update: My column is now on the NCC site.
On the one hand they decry money's influence and enact gag laws to regulate what private citizens can spend on politicking, but on the other hand they spend billions of tax dollars in pre-election binges.
Unfortunately the column is not on their website, but I will have it posted on the National Citizens Coalition site soon.
Update: My column is now on the NCC site.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Supreme Court To Rule on Blackout Law
The Supreme Court of Canada will release its decision tomorrow morning at 9:45 am EST on Paul Bryan’s constitutional challenge to the federal government’s election “blackout” law.
Paul -- with the financial support of the National Citizens Coalition -- is challenging an archaic and undemocratic law which bans the transmission of voting results on election night.
Section 329 of the Canada Elections Act, makes it an offence to broadcast or otherwise transmit voting results from parts of the country where the polls are closed to parts of the country where the polls are still open.
I hope the Court rules in favour of freedom tomorrow and strikes down this law.
Simply put, there is no justification for this kind of blackout law in a free society. The government has no business banning the flow of political information.
Several media outlets including the CBC, CTV, CanWest News, Sun Media, Canadian Press and the Globe and Mail intervened in this case to support Bryan’s constitutional position.
The Canadian Civil Liberties Association also intervened to support his stand.
Paul -- with the financial support of the National Citizens Coalition -- is challenging an archaic and undemocratic law which bans the transmission of voting results on election night.
Section 329 of the Canada Elections Act, makes it an offence to broadcast or otherwise transmit voting results from parts of the country where the polls are closed to parts of the country where the polls are still open.
I hope the Court rules in favour of freedom tomorrow and strikes down this law.
Simply put, there is no justification for this kind of blackout law in a free society. The government has no business banning the flow of political information.
Several media outlets including the CBC, CTV, CanWest News, Sun Media, Canadian Press and the Globe and Mail intervened in this case to support Bryan’s constitutional position.
The Canadian Civil Liberties Association also intervened to support his stand.
United Left Isn't Right
There has been a lot of talk lately about “uniting the left.”
The idea being the only way to stop the "Evil, Neo-Con Harper Juggernaut" is for the Liberals and New Democrats to join forces.
Let's leave aside the fact that far from being a juggernaut, the Tory government has only a slight minority and no real prospects at a majority.
Does it really make sense for Canada's "progressives" to unite under a single banner.
I don't think so.
After all, in politics 2+2 often does not equal four.
In other words, combining the Liberals and the NDP into one party would not result in combining their vote totals.
Many NDPers are more populists than socialist and would likely bolt from such a party and many “Blue Liberal” voters might fear socialist influences and also bolt from such a party.
What’s more, for the Liberals having a separate left-wing party is a distinct advantage.
Unlike the Democrats in the US they don’t have to worry about a “loony left wing faction” since such voices are safely contained in the NDP.
Yet, when the Liberals need to court the “progressive” vote the NDP serves as sort of a holding tank.
What I think the Left really needs to do is modernize a bit: Drop the class warfare rhetoric, dump the link to union bosses, tone down the anti-American rhetoric.
In other words, the Left needs to be more Right.
Media Update:
I will be discussing this issue on Adler Online at about 3:00 PM EST.
The idea being the only way to stop the "Evil, Neo-Con Harper Juggernaut" is for the Liberals and New Democrats to join forces.
Let's leave aside the fact that far from being a juggernaut, the Tory government has only a slight minority and no real prospects at a majority.
Does it really make sense for Canada's "progressives" to unite under a single banner.
I don't think so.
After all, in politics 2+2 often does not equal four.
In other words, combining the Liberals and the NDP into one party would not result in combining their vote totals.
Many NDPers are more populists than socialist and would likely bolt from such a party and many “Blue Liberal” voters might fear socialist influences and also bolt from such a party.
What’s more, for the Liberals having a separate left-wing party is a distinct advantage.
Unlike the Democrats in the US they don’t have to worry about a “loony left wing faction” since such voices are safely contained in the NDP.
Yet, when the Liberals need to court the “progressive” vote the NDP serves as sort of a holding tank.
What I think the Left really needs to do is modernize a bit: Drop the class warfare rhetoric, dump the link to union bosses, tone down the anti-American rhetoric.
In other words, the Left needs to be more Right.
Media Update:
I will be discussing this issue on Adler Online at about 3:00 PM EST.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Forget the Election Talk
More and more political pundits are coming to the conclusion that we will have a federal election either in late spring or early summer.
And certainly the signs are out there: the anti-Liberal attack ads, the "pre-election" spending spree, the Tory candidate "boot camp".
So I am going out on a limb, swimming against the tide, defying convetional wisdom, when I say confidently that there will not be a federal election in 2007 -- unless one is forced by the Opposition.
Why do I say that?
Because while Stephen Harper will take a calculated risk from time to time, he is most definitely not a gambler.
And holding an election this spring/summer would be a gamble.
Yes, Liberal leader Stephane Dion has been a bit of a bust, but the polling numbers do not yet indicate the Tories would win a majority.
So why risk a vote?
If Harper can only win another minority, his position will be weakened both inside and outside the party.
That's why he will hold off forcing an election until the cards are more in his favour.
So relax, it's going to be a calm summer.
And certainly the signs are out there: the anti-Liberal attack ads, the "pre-election" spending spree, the Tory candidate "boot camp".
So I am going out on a limb, swimming against the tide, defying convetional wisdom, when I say confidently that there will not be a federal election in 2007 -- unless one is forced by the Opposition.
Why do I say that?
Because while Stephen Harper will take a calculated risk from time to time, he is most definitely not a gambler.
And holding an election this spring/summer would be a gamble.
Yes, Liberal leader Stephane Dion has been a bit of a bust, but the polling numbers do not yet indicate the Tories would win a majority.
So why risk a vote?
If Harper can only win another minority, his position will be weakened both inside and outside the party.
That's why he will hold off forcing an election until the cards are more in his favour.
So relax, it's going to be a calm summer.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Kyoto is just for Starters
At a pro-Kyoto rally yesterday, Greenpeace's David Martin made an interesting comment.
"Make no mistake about it -- global warming is a reality. The debate is over," Martin declared. "(Kyoto) will work. It has to work. Kyoto is just the beginning. We need much, much deeper reductions." (emphasis mine.)
Martin is essentially admitting that for him and his environmentalist cohorts simply enacting the Kyoto Accord won't be enough. That's only step one.
"Make no mistake about it -- global warming is a reality. The debate is over," Martin declared. "(Kyoto) will work. It has to work. Kyoto is just the beginning. We need much, much deeper reductions." (emphasis mine.)
Martin is essentially admitting that for him and his environmentalist cohorts simply enacting the Kyoto Accord won't be enough. That's only step one.
They are already clamouring for a Kyoto II, and then it will be a Kyoto III.
And this reflects the problem of environmentalism as a political movement: there is no end game, no point at which the environment will ever really be safe from the threat of industrial society.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Right Online Thinking
If you're in the market for some intelligent conservative opinion with an international slant, check out a new online journal called Righthinker.
Its billed as "an online journal of politics, policy and popular culture. Contributors come from around the globe and differ in many regards however all have a common belief. That belief is in the primacy of the individual and that freedom is a universal need for all not a luxury for a fortunate few."
Based in Australia, its publisher, Matt Marks, just happens to be the son-in-law of Preston Manning.
And here's the best part: It's free to register.
Its billed as "an online journal of politics, policy and popular culture. Contributors come from around the globe and differ in many regards however all have a common belief. That belief is in the primacy of the individual and that freedom is a universal need for all not a luxury for a fortunate few."
Based in Australia, its publisher, Matt Marks, just happens to be the son-in-law of Preston Manning.
And here's the best part: It's free to register.
Maybe Xerxes is Supposed to be Bush
Well it looks like my boycotting the movie 300 hasn't hurt it at the Box Office.
It looks to be a blockbuster.
And this apparently has certain leftists up in arms.
Why?
Because 300 has the audacity to be just an entertaining action movie with no overt or hidden left-wing political message.
In other words, unlike virtually every other movie to come out of Hollywood over the past five years, it doesn't have an anti-American or anti-Bush subtext.
Almost makes me want to see it despite my squeamishness about the violence.
Or maybe I will do what a friend suggested: wait for the DVD and fast-forward through the gory bits.
Meanwhile here is another take on 300 from Libertas.
It looks to be a blockbuster.
And this apparently has certain leftists up in arms.
Why?
Because 300 has the audacity to be just an entertaining action movie with no overt or hidden left-wing political message.
In other words, unlike virtually every other movie to come out of Hollywood over the past five years, it doesn't have an anti-American or anti-Bush subtext.
Almost makes me want to see it despite my squeamishness about the violence.
Or maybe I will do what a friend suggested: wait for the DVD and fast-forward through the gory bits.
Meanwhile here is another take on 300 from Libertas.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Liberals Should Have Listened to Me
It looks like Liberal leader Stephane Dion has finally figured out that moving to the left of the NDP is not such a good idea. .
Faced with declining poll numbers, Dion is now paddling in somewhat the opposite direction.
Recently he has taken some sensible stands such as calling for income tax cuts and saying he will personally oppose Bill C-257, which favours big union bosses at the expense of our economy.
Not sure if these moves will be enough. Might be a case of too little, too late.
Dion and company probably now wish they had listened to me last summer when I warned them about their misguided socialist course.
"Voters will not support a political party that promotes the interests of special interest groups ahead of the well-being of the country," I perceptively wrote. "They will not support a party that putsCanada
I further cautioned:
"If the Liberals continue to head in that direction (to the left), which right now seems likely, it will only mean one thing: Stephen Harper and the Conservative Party will be in power for a long, long time."
It all goes to show the Liberals need to learn an important lesson: They don't call me one of the top five political minds in the country for nothing.
Faced with declining poll numbers, Dion is now paddling in somewhat the opposite direction.
Recently he has taken some sensible stands such as calling for income tax cuts and saying he will personally oppose Bill C-257, which favours big union bosses at the expense of our economy.
Not sure if these moves will be enough. Might be a case of too little, too late.
Dion and company probably now wish they had listened to me last summer when I warned them about their misguided socialist course.
"Voters will not support a political party that promotes the interests of special interest groups ahead of the well-being of the country," I perceptively wrote. "They will not support a party that puts
I further cautioned:
"If the Liberals continue to head in that direction (to the left), which right now seems likely, it will only mean one thing: Stephen Harper and the Conservative Party will be in power for a long, long time."
It all goes to show the Liberals need to learn an important lesson: They don't call me one of the top five political minds in the country for nothing.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Go Tell the Spartans, I won't See This Movie
For months I was looking forward to seeing the action movie 300, which depicts the famous Spartan battle at Thermopylae.
But now reviewers are saying the movie contains extreme and gory violence -- and that's something I'm not really into.
I guess I will just have to content myself with getting the British documentary on Sparta from the library.
It doesn't have great special effects, but nobody gets their head hacked off either.
But now reviewers are saying the movie contains extreme and gory violence -- and that's something I'm not really into.
I guess I will just have to content myself with getting the British documentary on Sparta from the library.
It doesn't have great special effects, but nobody gets their head hacked off either.
Taking out the Trash
Toronto's Ruling Soviet Council has moved swiftly and decisively to smash counter-revolutionary activity in the outlying region of York -- formerly the independent city of York.
What sort of activity?
Well, the residents of that region had contracted with -- horrors of horrors -- a private company to collect their garbage!!!
Needless to say this struck right to the heart of Comrade David Miller's Utopian socialist city state.
Imagine the embarrassment, for instance, a few years ago when Toronto's public garbage collectors went on strike. Trash was piling up everywhere, -- except in York, where the private company continued to collect the area's refuse.
Talk about sticking it to the Proletariat!
Well those bourgeois days are over.
Yesterday the City Council decreed the public sector will take over garbage collection in York.
The dangerous private sector experiment is over.
From now on, whenever there is a garbage strike the whole city will suffer equally. Now that's egalitarianism at its finest.
Long live the Miller revolution!
What sort of activity?
Well, the residents of that region had contracted with -- horrors of horrors -- a private company to collect their garbage!!!
Needless to say this struck right to the heart of Comrade David Miller's Utopian socialist city state.
Imagine the embarrassment, for instance, a few years ago when Toronto's public garbage collectors went on strike. Trash was piling up everywhere, -- except in York, where the private company continued to collect the area's refuse.
Talk about sticking it to the Proletariat!
Well those bourgeois days are over.
Yesterday the City Council decreed the public sector will take over garbage collection in York.
The dangerous private sector experiment is over.
From now on, whenever there is a garbage strike the whole city will suffer equally. Now that's egalitarianism at its finest.
Long live the Miller revolution!
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Talking Libertarianism in Montreal
Last week I had the honour and pleasure to attend a special dinner in Montreal, where a group of libertarian/conservative activists and thinkers convened to discuss lofty matters of principle.
There was a great exchange of ideas and opinions, and I must say I learned a lot.
Also in attendance was journalist Rondi Adamson, who has the lowdown on the other great thing about this dinner -- the meal itself.
There was a great exchange of ideas and opinions, and I must say I learned a lot.
Also in attendance was journalist Rondi Adamson, who has the lowdown on the other great thing about this dinner -- the meal itself.
The Lively Seven
Here's my latest column from Report Magzine.
It's about the Lively Seven, a group of courageous women who are fighting for the right not to be unionized.
It's about the Lively Seven, a group of courageous women who are fighting for the right not to be unionized.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Plato to NATO
Just finished reading the book, From Plato to NATO: The Idea of the West and its Opponents, and I certainly would recommend it.
Its author, David Gress, traces the evolution of democracy, capitalism and individual freedom -- all uniquely Western ideals -- from Ancient Greece to the modern day.
And it's not all just philosophy, there is some great political jabs in it too, as Gress dissects the faulty notions of fascism, Marxism and the welfare state.
One section of the book even looks at how the environmentalist movement threatens our freedoms.
Gress argues the Al Gores of the world are pushing the vision of a "Stone Age Soviet Union run by moralistic enforcers who have a monopoly of the means of coercion and propaganda; the very denial of liberalism and economic development, the only historically tested and reliable means of cleaner environment."
What's really great about this book, however, is the way it pieces together the wondrous story of Western civilization.
As Virgil said, "Happy he who comes to understand the cause of things."
Pork and Free Speech
One of the arguments used by those who favour election gag laws -- laws which severely restrict how much non-politicians can spend on political ads -- is they stop money from influencing elections.
Yes we can't have citizens spending their own money to express their own viewpoints. That would destroy democracy!
Yet it's apparently OK for politicians to spend billions of dollars of other people's money to influence voters.
Case in point, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty announced yesterday they would spend $4.5-billion on mass transit and road improvements for the Greater Toronto Area.
And, of course, we are supposed to believe it's just a coincidence that all this money is being spent in what could be an election year federally and what will certainly be an election year provincially.
Once upon a time, the National Citizens Coalition could have run ads during an election to condemn this type of pork-barrelling, but today that would be illegal.
We would be unfairly trying to "buy votes."
Yes we can't have citizens spending their own money to express their own viewpoints. That would destroy democracy!
Yet it's apparently OK for politicians to spend billions of dollars of other people's money to influence voters.
Case in point, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty announced yesterday they would spend $4.5-billion on mass transit and road improvements for the Greater Toronto Area.
And, of course, we are supposed to believe it's just a coincidence that all this money is being spent in what could be an election year federally and what will certainly be an election year provincially.
Once upon a time, the National Citizens Coalition could have run ads during an election to condemn this type of pork-barrelling, but today that would be illegal.
We would be unfairly trying to "buy votes."
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Quebec's Political Shift
A little while ago, when the Quebec "nation issue" was dominating the debate in the House of Commons, NDP leader Jack Layton came up with an interesting way to keep the country united.
He said since Quebec was generally a left wing province, the best way to keep it in Canada was for the rest of the country to adopt socialism.
Well there are a lot of things wrong with that line of thinking but here's one big problem: Quebec is actually moving to the right politically.
Consider: in the last federal election, Quebec elected ten Conservative MPs, Quebeckers are receptive to the idea of alternatives to government-run health care and two of the three main political provincial parties are to the right of centre.
If this trend keeps up, maybe Layton will next argue the best way to keep Quebec in Canada will be to adopt libertarianism.
No, he probably won't do that.
He said since Quebec was generally a left wing province, the best way to keep it in Canada was for the rest of the country to adopt socialism.
Well there are a lot of things wrong with that line of thinking but here's one big problem: Quebec is actually moving to the right politically.
Consider: in the last federal election, Quebec elected ten Conservative MPs, Quebeckers are receptive to the idea of alternatives to government-run health care and two of the three main political provincial parties are to the right of centre.
If this trend keeps up, maybe Layton will next argue the best way to keep Quebec in Canada will be to adopt libertarianism.
No, he probably won't do that.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Dion's Tour
Liberal leader Stephane Dion is about to engage on a cross-country tour in a bid to boost his sagging poll numbers.
According to the press, his strategists are hoping "it will showcase the depth of the former academic’s intellect and the breadth of his vision."
Well if the Liberals are pinning their hopes on Dion's intellect, well they might as well enjoy their stay in the Opposition benches because they will be there for a while.
I'm not saying Dion isn't smart intellectually, I am sure he is. But he doesn't seem to be all that smart politically, which is what counts when it comes to winning elections.
It's not smart to go around telling Canadians that you might impose a carbon tax on gasoline.
It's not smart politics to openly muse about nationalizing Alberta's oil sands.
It's not smart politics to scrap anti-terrorist police powers.
Rather than going on a speaking tour, Dion would be better served to re-think his policies.
It's easier to get voters to agree with you than it is to get them to like you.
According to the press, his strategists are hoping "it will showcase the depth of the former academic’s intellect and the breadth of his vision."
Well if the Liberals are pinning their hopes on Dion's intellect, well they might as well enjoy their stay in the Opposition benches because they will be there for a while.
I'm not saying Dion isn't smart intellectually, I am sure he is. But he doesn't seem to be all that smart politically, which is what counts when it comes to winning elections.
It's not smart to go around telling Canadians that you might impose a carbon tax on gasoline.
It's not smart politics to openly muse about nationalizing Alberta's oil sands.
It's not smart politics to scrap anti-terrorist police powers.
Rather than going on a speaking tour, Dion would be better served to re-think his policies.
It's easier to get voters to agree with you than it is to get them to like you.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
A Great Man's Legacy
Today marks the twentieth anniversary of a great man's death.
His name was Colin M. Brown.
Maybe you never heard of him, but Colin was an important person in my life and an important person in Canadian history.
For one thing, he was the founder and first president of the National Citizens Coalition.
But that's not what made him so important.
What's important about Colin is the example he set for the rest of us who believe in freedom and who believe some values are worthing fighting for --- no matter what the odds.
Today, for instance, some of us are sometimes disillusioned and disappointed with the trends of the world. Some of us even think at times that we should give up the battle.
But just imagine what it was like for conservatives back in the late 1960s, when Canada was in the grip of Trudeaumania.
Socialism we were told then was the way of the future. Big government, went the conventional wisdom, was the answer to all our problems.
Anyone who believed otherwise was ostracized as a "dinosaur" or worse.
Colin didn't buy it.
To him Trudeau's vision was not only wrong, but also destroying the country he loved.
Yet he just didn't complain about what was happening to his country -- he did something about it.
Always a fighter, this World War II vet, took up his sword and declared war on Trudeau's Canada.
Using his own money he took out ads in newspapers speaking up for free markets and calling for less government.
This was heresy!
Politicians attacked him, leftists smeared him, the media tried to ignore him.
But undeterred, Colin fought on.
And before long something happened: thousands of Canadians rallied to Colin's side.
They saw in Colin a man who had the courage of his convictions, a man who was saying the things they longed to hear, a man who wasn't afraid to stand up for what was right.
So great was Colin's support that in 1975 he founded the NCC, as a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to fighting for a freer, better Canada. He called it a hobby that went berserk.
Did Colin and the NCC help to change Canada?
Well let's put it this way, back in 1975 I don't think even Colin would have dreamed that one of his successors as NCC president would one day become Prime Minister.
His name was Colin M. Brown.
Maybe you never heard of him, but Colin was an important person in my life and an important person in Canadian history.
For one thing, he was the founder and first president of the National Citizens Coalition.
But that's not what made him so important.
What's important about Colin is the example he set for the rest of us who believe in freedom and who believe some values are worthing fighting for --- no matter what the odds.
Today, for instance, some of us are sometimes disillusioned and disappointed with the trends of the world. Some of us even think at times that we should give up the battle.
But just imagine what it was like for conservatives back in the late 1960s, when Canada was in the grip of Trudeaumania.
Socialism we were told then was the way of the future. Big government, went the conventional wisdom, was the answer to all our problems.
Anyone who believed otherwise was ostracized as a "dinosaur" or worse.
Colin didn't buy it.
To him Trudeau's vision was not only wrong, but also destroying the country he loved.
Yet he just didn't complain about what was happening to his country -- he did something about it.
Always a fighter, this World War II vet, took up his sword and declared war on Trudeau's Canada.
Using his own money he took out ads in newspapers speaking up for free markets and calling for less government.
This was heresy!
Politicians attacked him, leftists smeared him, the media tried to ignore him.
But undeterred, Colin fought on.
And before long something happened: thousands of Canadians rallied to Colin's side.
They saw in Colin a man who had the courage of his convictions, a man who was saying the things they longed to hear, a man who wasn't afraid to stand up for what was right.
So great was Colin's support that in 1975 he founded the NCC, as a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to fighting for a freer, better Canada. He called it a hobby that went berserk.
Did Colin and the NCC help to change Canada?
Well let's put it this way, back in 1975 I don't think even Colin would have dreamed that one of his successors as NCC president would one day become Prime Minister.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Gerry's Most UnExcellent Adventure
In this blog's last exciting episode I was in my Montreal hotel room anxiously checking flight schedules to see if the massive winter storm pounding the city would keep me from getting home.
Here's the rest of the story (warning some scenes are intended for mature audiences, viewer discretion is advised)
At about 10:00 AM after a pleasant sounding fellow from the airline assured me my 12:15 flight was still on time I bravely embarked on my journey.
Things got off to a bad start when immediately upon leaving the hotel, I sunk into a snow bank up to my chest.
But that was nothing, then came the cab ride.
You know how soldiers tell you war is long periods of tedium punctuated with brief moments of sheer terror.
Well that's what my cab ride was like.
It alternated between being a slow snail-like crawl along ice covered streets and a heart-pounding Disneyland ride designed by Satan.
After the death-defying cab ride it was the security check.
Just my luck some young guy was being trained to be a security guard and I guess I was his "test".
With three other older, mean-looking security guards looking on, this kid took me aside and treated me like I was Osama Bin Laden: I had to undo my belt buckle, take off my boots, and endure a "full metal scan" that was a little more invasive than I liked.
Let's just say he was very thorough and I am sure he passed with flying colours.
Next it was waiting in the terminal lounge -- my flight was delayed. What a shock!!
But finally after waiting for hours in the lounge, they allowed us to board the plane, where we waited for more hours.
Oh yeah, one of the passengers was an absolutely, stunningly gorgeous young lady, who I am certain was a professional model.
Did she sit next to me?
No, of course not. I sat next to a salesman from Manitoba, who kept saying, "Let's pray for a safe flight."
Anyway, after we deiced the plane's wings and after the runway was shoveled free of snow, we finally took off.
The flight itself was uneventful -- except for the aggravating "artist" behind me who kept prattling on about his "performance art".
Eventually we landed safe and sound in Toronto City Island airport.
And just to make the trip end on the right note: I got seasick crossing on the ferry.
Here's the rest of the story (warning some scenes are intended for mature audiences, viewer discretion is advised)
At about 10:00 AM after a pleasant sounding fellow from the airline assured me my 12:15 flight was still on time I bravely embarked on my journey.
Things got off to a bad start when immediately upon leaving the hotel, I sunk into a snow bank up to my chest.
But that was nothing, then came the cab ride.
You know how soldiers tell you war is long periods of tedium punctuated with brief moments of sheer terror.
Well that's what my cab ride was like.
It alternated between being a slow snail-like crawl along ice covered streets and a heart-pounding Disneyland ride designed by Satan.
After the death-defying cab ride it was the security check.
Just my luck some young guy was being trained to be a security guard and I guess I was his "test".
With three other older, mean-looking security guards looking on, this kid took me aside and treated me like I was Osama Bin Laden: I had to undo my belt buckle, take off my boots, and endure a "full metal scan" that was a little more invasive than I liked.
Let's just say he was very thorough and I am sure he passed with flying colours.
Next it was waiting in the terminal lounge -- my flight was delayed. What a shock!!
But finally after waiting for hours in the lounge, they allowed us to board the plane, where we waited for more hours.
Oh yeah, one of the passengers was an absolutely, stunningly gorgeous young lady, who I am certain was a professional model.
Did she sit next to me?
No, of course not. I sat next to a salesman from Manitoba, who kept saying, "Let's pray for a safe flight."
Anyway, after we deiced the plane's wings and after the runway was shoveled free of snow, we finally took off.
The flight itself was uneventful -- except for the aggravating "artist" behind me who kept prattling on about his "performance art".
Eventually we landed safe and sound in Toronto City Island airport.
And just to make the trip end on the right note: I got seasick crossing on the ferry.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Blizzard Blues
Well I am in Montreal right now and by the look of the massive winter storm raging outside my hotel window it looks like I might be here for a long time!
Just my luck, global warming decides to take a holiday on the very day I am visiting the city!
Anyway, was talking politics with some of the locals around here and one opinion making the rounds is that when all the election dust is settled on March 26th, Quebec might have something it has never had in its history: a minority government.
As if politics in this province weren't already wacky enough.
However, it's also a tradition in Quebec to elect back-to-back majority governments, so who knows.
All I care about right now is whether or not my plane is going to take off!
Just my luck, global warming decides to take a holiday on the very day I am visiting the city!
Anyway, was talking politics with some of the locals around here and one opinion making the rounds is that when all the election dust is settled on March 26th, Quebec might have something it has never had in its history: a minority government.
As if politics in this province weren't already wacky enough.
However, it's also a tradition in Quebec to elect back-to-back majority governments, so who knows.
All I care about right now is whether or not my plane is going to take off!
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