Who will replace Howard?
For democracy to survive in Ontario, we need strong opposition parties with strong leaders. Right now that is sadly lacking.
With Howard Hampton’s announcement that he is stepping down as leader of the Ontario NDP party, there is now some hope on the horizon. Today’s National Post suggests that there may be some interest among their federal counterparts - MPs likely to join race to lead NDP in Ontario.
My feeling is that the job description requires a voice from the GTA which automatically disqualifies Charlie Angus. Howard Hampton’s northern riding location was an albatross around his neck. Therefore, Angus is problematic for the same reason. On the other hand, he is passionate about aboriginal affairs and politics in general, so perhaps he could overcome the postal code handicap.
The two other MPs who are mentioned in the article are female and located in the GTA area. Both are advantageous to a party seeking more female representation. Also I would imagine that most of their base is located in Toronto in terms of numbers, so either Peggy Nash or Olivia Chow could be credible candidates.
I can’t get too excited about either of the two possible contenders from the provincial caucus - Cherie DiNovo or Peter Tabuns.
Ontario needs a very strong opposition leader. Someone needs to step up to the plate for the sake of the province. Someone with experience , charisma and a gift for eloquence . Who else could we possibly draft?
Hey, how about this guy?
Nah…
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Update: And what are the Dippers saying? Check out New Democrats Online and Ontario NDP Leadership 2009 Coverage for all the latest gossip and speculation.
June 16th, 2008 at 10:11 am
Nope, not “spendthrift” Bob. We can’t afford to have him come back to Ontario.
On the other hand, perhaps it could be the ultimate (and last) sacrifice Ontario makes for the nation. Just localize another humungous budget deficit in Ontario, rather than inflict a future Bob Rae “experienced budget” on the whole nation.
June 16th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
some suggestions:
David Miller(now all Tory has to do is get his own seat in the leg. and we have a rematch of the Mayorial race)
Sid Ryan(after all the Libs. have Buzz)
Andrea Horvath(would be an excellent choice)
Charles Pascal(friend of NDP,Liberals and Tor.Star alike-currently advisor to the Libs. re: full-day kindergarten)
Peter Kormos - my personal choice - as a small c conservative if I lived in his riding I’d be voting for him.
June 16th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Peter Kormos - my personal choice - as a small c conservative if I lived in his riding I’d be voting for him.
Yeah, I think he’s got the fire in his belly for it. Not the greatest diplomat, but maybe that’s not a necessary ingredient in this case.
June 16th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
“not the greatest diplomat….”
neither’s Bill Murdock and HE too keeps getting elected because he remembers who he’s accountable to even if it goes against the party line.
June 16th, 2008 at 6:41 pm
Happy to see Bob stick with the Federal Libs.
They don’t seem to realize what an albatross he is in Ontario.
June 16th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
John Tory ….. that’s not a stretch.
June 16th, 2008 at 10:00 pm
On the other hand Garth Turner will be looking for a new party and a new job ….