On the issue of integrity and politicians
Is the title of this post an oxymoron?
Sadly, there are few of us who actually believe the campaign promises of any politician on the hustings. Dalton McGuinty’s introduction of the Health Tax is an example of a ‘broken promise.’ This present government has had a few as well (eg. income trust), even though it can be argued that there are credible reasons for the reversals. Stephane Dion says the Green Shift will be revenue neutral, but many voters are skeptical. And some parties can promise the world, knowing that they’ll never actually have to form the government and be accountable for those promises (hello Jack & Gilles!).
The Liberal Party’s actions in Adscam betrayed taxpayers’ confidence. There is no shortage of examples where trust in politicians has been eroded.
However, where is the tipping point when a politician’s actions become so indefensible that he or she loses total credibility?
I think we have two examples today. One is Garth Turner who has been exposed by Steve Janke and Stephen Taylor. MSM is quickly catching up on the story.
The other is Elizabeth May, who has been exposed in today’s National Post as a fast-talking bumbler who is digging herself in deeper as she continues to contradict herself regarding the ’stupid Canadians’ fiasco.
In the case of Garth Turner, his actions reflect badly on the Liberal Party and his leader, Stephane Dion.
In the case of Elizabeth May, Stephane Dion is also affected because of his "unofficial alliance" with her.
What will Stephane do? Will he ignore it?
Will Canadian voters ignore it? Or do we cynically accept it as same old, same old?
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Update : Wow! Garth has apologized!! H/T to Phantom Observer. How do you think this will play out in his riding (and on CPAC)?
BTW, I seem to be having some technical issues today, which I’m going to have to investigate. Please don’t adjust your set. Thanks.
Afternoon Update: Oh, this is juicy! Check out Stephen Taylor - Ormiston vs. Turner. So now that’s CPAC and CBC p.o.’d with Turner…
Stephen’s been busy today! Here’s another one - TVO disagrees with Elizabeth May.
And please check out Chuckercanuk - Canvassing Canada. This is not to be missed!!!
September 16th, 2008 at 9:29 am
I read the comments at Garth’s and they are all positive. I left one myself and stated that I didn’t expect it would be published. However, surprise, surprise it popped up in the comments. Maybe he has lifted the ban, or maybe it will disappear later.
I just wish the media would see through all the hogwash that goes on in all the other parties instead of doing days of press on Tory missteps.
September 16th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
Your first comment will appear right away. Within minutes garth or esther will delete it, and block you from further comments at the same time.