CalgaryGrit: Ask Not What Your Country Can Do For You...

Thursday, March 02, 2006

Ask Not What Your Country Can Do For You...

The Ward-Heeler, Best/Worst of Times, Daveberta, Warren Kinsella, The Dan Report, and several other blogs have already posted encouraging Gerard Kennedy to run for Liberal Leadership. Everything I hear says that Gerard is still on the fence so I think it's time for a little grass roots movement, courtesy of the world wide web.

Whether or not you would support him, it's hard to deny that a young, charismatic, bilingual, socially progressive Liberal with roots in Western Canada would bring a lot to the race. If nothing else, he could spare us all the prospect of a Bob Rae/Belinda Stronach final ballot.

So I encourage Liberals everywhere to let Gerard know they'd like him to run. Tell him what he could bring to the race. Tell him the Liberal Party needs him. Tell him that only a handful of individuals get a chance to become Prime Minister and make this country a better place.

You can e-mail him at: gkennedy.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org

Or, if you prefer, fill out an online e-mail here.

65 Comments:

CalgaryGrit,

You are on the right track with this email campaign.

Just a few other notes I would like to make that I have not previously (except at bestworstimes):

Gerard does not do what is politically expedient. And that's why I and many others admire him.

When I first met Gerard (20+ years ago) he was director of the Edmonton food bank. At that time, prodding questions revealed that the Alberta provincial Conservatives, Liberals, and NDP had all approached Gerard to run for them.

Nice. At 25, having all three provincial parties chasing you. What did Gerard do? Took up a fourth offer that was more characteristic of his altruistic nature - came to run the Daily Bread Food Bank in Toronto when asked.

From a polticial perspective and most definitely a salary perspective, most of us would have not made this decision. Gerard is different. I believe if Gerard had stayed in Alberta, and had taken the Conservative offer, he would have been a provincial Minister before he was 30.

Meeting him again years later in Toronto, prodding questions revealed that the Ontario provincial Conservatives, Liberals, and NDP had all approached him hoping to have him run for them. Instead of doing the poltical-wise and salary-wise thing most of us would do, Gerard choose to stay as director of the Daily Bread Food Bank for 10 years.

Gerard is very much committed to the portfolio he is in right now. He spent half his time in opposition as education critic for the Ontario Liberals. Gerard knows what still needs to occur in the system to make it much better. Gerard is presently in a position to do that now that he is Minister of Education. McGuinty has been supportive of many of his initiatives and Gerard has been loyal to McGuinty. It has and is working well.

Gerard is making a difference now as Minister of Education. I know it, and Ontario parents, teachers and students know it.

Gerard was not waiting for Paul Martin to step down so he could run for the Leadership of the Federal Liberal Party. He has been thrust into this position by thousands of people from all walks of life who believe he would make a difference.

PLEASE NOTE: Some people are questioning if we should email someone who doesn't appear to have a burning desire to lead. They need to consider a few things:

1. Gerard was not waiting for Paul Martin to step down as Federal Liberal leader.
2. Gerard is already in a position that allows him to make a positive difference in the lives of millions of people.
3. Gerard will not necessarily do what you and I would do.
4. As of this morning, there is only one official candidate.
5. As of this morning, we can not say where and when the leadership convention will occur.
6. IF GERARD DECIDES TO RUN, YOU WILL SEE HIM "ROLL UP HIS SLEEVES" AND SEE A POSITIVE CAMPAIGN UNLIKE ANY YOU HAVE SEEN BEFORE.

By Anonymous, at 12:06 p.m.
Trudeau needed some proding to run too.

I'll certainly be sending off an e-mail to Mr. Kennedy since he sounds exactly like what the party needs now.

By Anonymous, at 12:08 p.m.
Well, I hope Dion runs too. I've always felt the more candidates, the better.

By calgarygrit, at 12:44 p.m.
Absolutely, CG!

By Ted Betts, at 1:09 p.m.
To perhaps be a bit shall we say cynical what actual qualifications does Kennedy have to run the country? I understand that he can speak French. Well and good, anyone who has aspirations to be Prime Minister should be able to do so.

On the other hand, by the way his promoters have been suggesting it Kennedy has no practical experience at all. He has no business background, no legal background, nothing that cries out that he has a sound graspe of economics or public policy. Charity work is laudible but running the country isn't an award from the Rotary Club.

By Chris, at 1:52 p.m.
"On the other hand, by the way his promoters have been suggesting it Kennedy has no practical experience at all. He has no business background, no legal background, nothing that cries out that he has a sound graspe of economics or public policy. Charity work is laudible but running the country isn't an award from the Rotary Club."

Answer that question first for Stephan Harper and I'll answer it for Kennedy.

By Anonymous, at 2:25 p.m.
I have to admit that I don't know much about Kennedy myself. I hear that he's the Ontario Minister of Education but that's about all I know.

Although a cursory glance at his history shows nothing wrong, it also shows nothing truely remarkable. Despite his charity work mentioned by another poster (which is a testament to his character) I don't know what he really brings to the table.

Perhaps someone could enlighten me what beyond where he is from and his language skills qualifies him?

By Eric, at 2:25 p.m.
Chris

Gerard is in charge of a Ministry with a budget larger than many provincial budgets.

He was director of Canada's largest food bank.

Thats alot more exprience than Harpo.

By Anonymous, at 3:07 p.m.
Chris,

Kennedy has been in opposition and government for 10 years with two senior critic posts and now, the minister of education. I think he has very practical economic and public policy experience.

By Anonymous, at 3:12 p.m.
Yes, but no one's mentioned him having an educational background of any significance. He's now been minister of one of the worst education systems in the country for two years? Upon that basis you believe he should be Prime Minister?

As for running a large food bank..as admirable as that may be. No one's talking about Kennedy taking a run at being Pope. Thus his charity work is perhaps a sign of good character, but its also a sign of someone with little experience is the actually day to day grind of life. How well that allows one to shape policies and relate to people is questionable.

By Chris, at 3:40 p.m.
Kennedy has 10 years of experience as an MPP, including over 2 as one of the most Senior Cabinet Ministers in Ontario. As far as political experience goes, that's as much, or more, than most of the other candidates (except Dion and Rae).

Kennedy A LOT more government experience than Belinda, Dryden or Ignatieff (who has...none), and comparable amounts to people like Brison, Volpe, Bevilaqua, etc.

Once Manley, McKenna, Rock and Robin droped out, the experienced players left the stage.

By calgarygrit, at 3:47 p.m.
Chris

Ontario has the worse education system in the Country? On what basis do you make that statement?

I would venture to say that Ontario has some of the best schools and top rated universities in the country. (I know Gerard is not the minister responsible for universities)

Many have described Gerard as one of the best the Ministers of Education Ontario has had in the last 20 years.

Why do I suspect Tories like Chris are just a little scared of Gerard Kennedy? Could it be because Gerard was opening food banks while Harper and the NCC were pimping for upper-class tax cuts?

Chris, perhaps as an Albertan you prefer politicians that throw books at schoolgirls, or get drunk and attack the homeless and disabled? Sadly, attacking the weak and less fortunate seems to have become an Alberta pass time.

By Anonymous, at 4:33 p.m.
Chris,

You are obviously not a Kennedy supporter. You have been been provided with ample evidence of his political experience that makes him a leading candidate for the Liberal leadership.

Your remarks are beginning to sound desperate.

By Anonymous, at 4:50 p.m.
Chris,

Business Acumen:

The Toronto Star called him "Newsmaker of the Year" in 1993 and two years later the Financial Post magazine awarded him an "honourable mention" as its CEO of the Year.

Not many people can build and run an organization that feeds 150,000 families a month without government money. To achieve this, Gerard had to create positive relationships with executives from many corporations.

Minister in charge of a ministry whose budget exceeds that of a few provinces.

Accomplishments and the man:

see

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerard_Kennedy

see

http://www.ukrweekly.com/Archive/1999/219910.shtml

see

http://www.eye.net/eye/issue/issue_04.30.98/news_views/hendley.html

If you need more, ask...

By Anonymous, at 5:01 p.m.
"Thus his charity work is perhaps a sign of good character, but its also a sign of someone with little experience is the actually day to day grind of life."

chris, i was never as overworked as when i worked for charities and non-profit organizations. doing similar work in the private sector was far more cushy. actually go and do some charity work (9-5, 5 days a week of work, not simply $ donation or volunteering for a three-day telethon) and then tell me how much it has in common with the daily grind

By ainge lotusland, at 5:24 p.m.
Hey CG
Do you find it interesting that Dion is coming to Calgary on Sunday but no one is getting invited.
Is it interesting that the organizing is being done by Todd Herniak, an associate of John Bethel.
Now we all know that Bethal is supporting Brison. Could it be that someone is sabotaging Dions Calgary visit in order to convince Dion that his support is weak and so that he will not run, thus eliminating compitition. This is the kind of thing that the board would have done in the old days.
enquiring minds want to know.

By Anonymous, at 6:05 p.m.
Not really, the only candidate that was mildly disconcerting was McKenna whose pulled himself out of the race. Candidates touted for their "charisma" tend to be something of a flash in the pan.

But hey maybe someone with experience asking for alms for the poor is what you need with the debt the Liberals have reacked up.

By Chris, at 7:30 p.m.
The only thing I've decided so far is that I'm in the "anybody but Belinda" camp.

By catnip, at 7:46 p.m.
Yeah! That's what we need. More blandness in federal politics. More ideological bowling partners. More pedantic wonks. Are you people f'in kidding me? Have you ever heard Kennedy speak? He is verbal salt peter. Christ, this party is in some serious trouble. Unless the strategy is to get the electorate to yawn their way through a Liberal victory or fall asleep with their stubby pencils on the right X it will never work.

K-Dough's Canada

By K-Dough, at 8:49 p.m.
K-Dough,

Kennedy is a dynamic, excellent speaker. Don't know where you heard him but your opinion is definitely in the minority. Come out and hear him again.

By Anonymous, at 8:58 p.m.
K-Dough,

Yawn.That's too funny (not). Kennedy is one heck of a good speaker and um, some listening skills are required. Maybe you should get some sleep in advance the next time.

By Anonymous, at 9:24 p.m.
Jill- Yikes. Are you serious? Do you work for him or do you just think he's cute- or both? Dynamic? Maybe in comparison to a physics professor on Lorazepam. But to motivate the masses? C'mon. Next thing you'll be saying Takhar is a genius. Sheesh.

McGuinty- dynamic, leader.
Kennedy - hand over the razor blades baby, cuz it's wrist slittin' time.

K-Dough's Canada

By K-Dough, at 9:30 p.m.
K-Dough,

Kennedy has "motivated the masses" before and he is doing it again.

Your comments are getting creepy.

By Anonymous, at 10:06 p.m.
Maybe someone can tell me which Provincial MP has become Prime Minister in this country's history.

As I've said a gazillion times, Provincial politicians do not fare well in Federal Leadership.

Gerard is a wonderful guy. But, might I remind everyone he was the heavy favourite in the provincial leadership and lost. He was out-flanked by McGuinty. McGuinty!

He is an amazing provincial minister with a long and bright future in the Province. He's not ready to lead this Party.

Sorry Peter. That's the way I've fealt since the beginning and I've done my homework.

By James Curran, at 10:09 p.m.
Jill- speaking of creepy: blind political fanatacism. How does that grab ya? Now admit it- you have his 8x10 black and white on your locker door, don't you?

Anyway, he will absolutely not become the leader of the federal grits. He is smart - wonky smart- but a provincial boy at heart.

By K-Dough, at 10:21 p.m.
James,

I agree that the past history of provincial candidates moving to the federal scene has not been stellar, but I'm willing to consider Kennedy because of the fact that he might be the best of a bad lot. If my other options are Belinda, Brison, Rae, Volpe, Belevaquia and Cauchon I pray to god that Kennedy enters the race. Only Ignatif and Dion wet my whistle compared to Kennedy.

By Anonymous, at 10:23 p.m.
JC,

EVERYONE knows that you are supporting Ignatieff. Thus, your biased comments about Kennedy lack objectivity, to say the least.

Kennedy was actually admired for how far he got in the provincial leadership 10 years ago because he was new to politics. Now, with 10 years experience, he will go all the way.

Good luck with your candidate.

By Anonymous, at 10:23 p.m.
KS.

You are without memory. I have said all along I like Iggy and the Goalie. THEY are listening to fellow Liberals. THEY are concerned about the state of this Party. THEY are asking US, the people in the Party what OUR opinions are.

That's a hell of a lot more than Rob Foster is doing for the Golden Horseshoe and Mike Crawley is doing for the Province of Ontario and Mike Eizenga is doing for the rest of the country.

Gerard is running a Ministry and that is his job. He is far far far behind the others already.

Again, I like him. He's IS a great speaker. He has done very well. But, it's about the vision this Party needs. Gerard has been very very very busy. I don't even know if he understands how split we are right now. Maybe Peter will tell us.

By James Curran, at 10:31 p.m.
Manitoba,

I agree. I'd like to see Gerard in the race. But, not at the risk of losing him Provincially where he is stellar and very appreciated. Only to have him be defeated at the hands of the Belinda's of the world.

I'm sure this is weighing heavy on him as well. He is pretty set up and he knows how tough the sledding will be for Leadership. At what cost? Having to give up his place Provincially? Is it worth it? I wouldn't want to be him for a minute.

The What Do I know Grit.

By James Curran, at 10:37 p.m.
James,

Not living in Ontario I don't have to worry about losing a good minister so I am selfishly hoping he does make a run. He seems like he could add a lot to the race.

I don't have a clear grasp of the political world of Ontario, but say if Gerrard did run for the leadership of the federal Liberals and unfourtanly lost, would he be lambasted if he ran again in a provincal election?

By Anonymous, at 10:47 p.m.
My thoughts are no, he wouldn't. McGuinty may not be obliged to give him a great portfolio though...assuming we beat the Tories next year. I'm just saying that this is weighing very very heavy on his mind. Some higher-ups are stating he was leaning NO last week. But, Peter says he's undecided.

I too like Dion, however, my suspicions are that Canada is Prime Minister from Quebecked out right now.

I'm just a lowly guy on the Party totem pole. What do I know anyway?

The What Do I Know Grit

By James Curran, at 11:01 p.m.
JC; Just because we've never had a succesful female PM, doesn't mean we should ignore female candidates. I think the reason provincial politicians haven't fared well as PM is because the provincial politicians who become party leaders have usually been Tories.

Also, Kennedy lost to Dalton at 2 AM on the 5th ballot, after 1 YEAR as an MP. I'd say that's quite the accomplishment for a guy with zero political experience at the time. He's got an extra decade under his belt now.

By Anonymous, at 11:12 p.m.
Sounds like Gerard Kennedy is a real trail blazer.

Who cares if no provincial type or not made the leap before etc.

Cheers to a new Liberal era. I'd give him a chance.

By Anonymous, at 11:13 p.m.
Hey, the more the merrier.

As for female candidates. My record on that stands for itself. I am a very very very large supporter of female candidates. Anyone that knows anything about me will tell you that.

I attend any function that will suport a female candidate. Anywhere any time. aI just won't support Ms. Stronach. I won't support anyone, including Brison, that stood for something else other than liberal ideals in a previous political life.

I admire Martha for coming forward. I'd even like to see McLellan, Stewart or Dr. Bennett do so.

We need people with vision. We need people that can represent us on the world stage. Visionaries. Visionaries that have Liberal values.

Iggy was there with Trudeau in the late 60's. Maybe he's not for everyone. But, he is multi lingual and does know an awful lot about the rest of the world. Not just how to rally support in the party.

TWDIKG

By James Curran, at 11:24 p.m.
With Reg Alcock soon to be announced as the Federal Chair of Belinda's campaign I think it is fair to say that Belinda will be the clear front runner because Reg Alcock is one of the greatest political organizers in Canada.

By Anonymous, at 11:39 p.m.
"Greatest political organizer in Canada"

Let's see. Didn't Alcock lose his riding the past election and a Martinite that led to an election loss for the Libs? Winning touch, I don't think so.

By Anonymous, at 11:51 p.m.
Alcock lost his seat because he was much too busy doing BIG THINK projects and saving the asses of Liberals in other ridings across the country. Reg admits that he made an error in not campaigning in his own riding, but his loss lead to the Liberals holding onto at least another 10-15 seats across the country.

Reg will run in 2008 with Belinda and be her Finance Minister. With great minds like Pat Ferguson and Nakina Sankar running the show with Reg you can guarantee that Alcock and Belinda are going all the way to the top

By Anonymous, at 12:05 a.m.
Maybe it's just that I don't follow enough of my own province's politics, but Kennedy just doesn't do it for me. I do agree that he shines out of the cast so far, but I'm not sure whether that shows how bright he is or how dim the room is.

I just can't see any one of these guys beating Harper, unless Harper beats himself. (Belinda vs. Harper makes me chuckle.) The Libs need a candidate that can bring some winnability to them. So far I'm just not seeing it.

By Anonymous, at 1:23 a.m.
"Tell him that only a handful of individuals get a chance to become Prime Minister and make this country a better place."

A liberal making the country a better place!
Isn't that an--umm-er--like- oxymoron.

Horny toad

By Anonymous, at 1:23 a.m.
Last anonymous,

I am laughing so hard I nearly fell off my chair. You are obviously an Alcock and Stronach fan. But, I'm afraid other Manitoba Liberals do not see him as the great election saviour. On the contrary, we need more renewal in the party, not repeats of the recent election (Reg lost and the party lost, remember??)

Stronach is a non-starter across the country. Do I really need to go into the lengthy list of why she will not win?? Let's see, a few key reasons, she is a turncoat, cannot speak French, has very limited political experience, and the most important reason: there are MANY more qualified candidates than her.

By Anonymous, at 1:30 a.m.
"With Reg Alcock soon to be announced as the Federal Chair of Belinda's campaign I think it is fair to say that Belinda will be the clear front runner because Reg Alcock is one of the greatest political organizers in Canada."

Oh goody, goody,goody,goody,goody, Belinda as Liberal leader. I can HARDLY wait for the next election.
But, then again, she does have NICE legs.

Horny Toad

By Anonymous, at 1:33 a.m.
roby,

Give Kennedy some serious consideration. The candidate campaigns will soon be announced and you will see him in action. He is a bright light all on his own.

By Anonymous, at 1:36 a.m.
Roby

Gerard could beat Harper in his sleep.

By Anonymous, at 9:16 a.m.
"Reg will run in 2008 with Belinda and be her Finance Minister. With great minds like Pat Ferguson and Nakina Sankar running the show with Reg you can guarantee that Alcock and Belinda are going all the way to the top."

This is too funny. Especially since at least one of the people mentioned in this paragraph would need 4 I.Q. points to qualify as lawn furniture.

By Don, at 9:34 a.m.
Sans aucun doute, Kennedy est juste le type d'individu que nous avons besoin dans la course.

Le temps est maintenant pour GMK.(Gerard Michael Kennedy).

Laissez la campagne commencer!

By Anonymous, at 10:56 a.m.
James,

You are correct in that Gerard has been like the battery-bunny the past month. And my children and your children (and 2,000,000+ other Ontario children) will benefit from it. Unfortunately as a result, he has not been able to meet and listen to you and thousands of Liberals (and others) across the country.

Yesterday: Student Performance Bill

http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GPOE/2006/03/02/c3380.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html

February 24 High School Co-op Partnership Program in Kingston

http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GPOE/2006/02/24/c1319.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html

February 21 Safe School Conference in Toronto

http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GPOE/2006/02/21/c4894.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html

February 17 Address to Francophone Educators (in French) in Ottawa

http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GPOE/2006/02/17/c3973.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html

February 16 Mathematics Conference in Toronto

http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GPOE/2006/02/15/c3105.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html

February 10 Student Success Strategy in Niagara Falls

http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GPOE/2006/02/10/c1372.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html

February 8 Healthy Food Choices in High Schools initiative in Lindsay

http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GPOE/2006/02/08/c0375.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html

February 3 More Choices for Francophone High School Students Announcement

http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GPOE/2006/02/03/c3890.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html

Unfortunately, these are just the newswire announcements for the past month. I know of many more events (and Queens Park has been in session for the last month). Gerard as leadership candidate will remind you of the battery-bunny.

By Anonymous, at 11:45 a.m.
You people are selling Reg Alcock short.

He has the team and the talent to deliver Manitoba and the country for Belinda.

It sounds like some sour grapes from people that don't like how good Reg and his staff are.

Reg and his team kicked everyones ass in 2002/2003 and he still owns the party. Membership rules are still the same as they were last time, meaning Alcock controls every form that leaves the Broadway Office.

You Kennedy people are screwed.

Belinda and Reg are going to win.

By Anonymous, at 11:54 a.m.
When this Chris writes things like the following

"Yes, but no one's mentioned him having an educational background of any significance. He's now been minister of one of the worst education systems in the country for two years? Upon that basis you believe he should be Prime Minister?
As for running a large food bank..as admirable as that may be. No one's talking about Kennedy taking a run at being Pope. Thus his charity work is perhaps a sign of good character, but its also a sign of someone with little experience is the actually day to day grind of life. How well that allows one to shape policies and relate to people is questionable."

...you have to take him/her/so-con with many, many grains of salt.

That Tory supporters would back-handed compliment someone with Kennedy's kind of experience also shows a severe difference in principles. Harpo's experience was many years of criticizing and kicking dirt when he didn't get his way. His one big 'achievement' prior to the last election was in bribing another party leader to merge two teams together. No moral authority he is. Give him time, Harpo will be creating more opportunities for men and women to follow in Kennedy's footprints by operating foodbanks around the country.
Look at both Harpo and Layton's experience. Neither should be excluded from potential PM role, but do they stand out? The consider Kennedy's resume, which has depth, success, sacrifice and compassion - not much self-interest, unlike Harpo's. Also note he is not a lawyer, so my bet is the Chrises of Canada are a little worried. But let's see if Kennedy runs. We Liberals will have more than one good choice to make come the convention.

By Anonymous, at 12:13 p.m.
" Roby

Gerard could beat Harper in his sleep."

I remember hearing that about a certain recent former PM, too.

I'm not knocking him out, by any means. I was just saying if he is as good as he is being billed, than I hope for liberal sake I hear more about him. Cause so far, I'm just not convinced. I will give him much more consideration if/when he runs.

By Anonymous, at 2:42 p.m.
Anonymous 9:54am,

Sounds like Reggie controls you too. Especially if you think Stronach is going to win. The leadership cannot be bought and all the Magna bucks in the world won't change Stronach's short list qualifications. And, I did not get paid to say that!

By Anonymous, at 2:49 p.m.
Reg Alcock just better hope that Satpreet Thiara does not come in and kick his fucking ass again. That was pretty sweet when that happened, you remember anonymous, when Allan Rock's team steamrolled Reg and his merry band of losers...

By Anonymous, at 4:10 p.m.
I didn't support Mr. Kennedy for the Ontario Provincial leadership, why would I support him for the national party? I have met Mr. Kennedy and I have watched him closely as an Ontario cabinet minister; he just doesn't strike me as a person who can make the difficult decisions that make people angry but have to be made. He says all the right things but doesn't always deliver, I would like to see how he does in another cabinet portfolio that isn't as favoured by the Premier as the Education ministry has been.

By Anonymous, at 4:52 p.m.
Satpreet Thiara? He can barely be the manager of the Walia-mart that he opened.

The ones who defeated the Martin forces in Manitoba were none other than Mandy Maghera and Heather Mack.

Mandy, by the way, now works side by side with Gerard Kennedy.

Interesting...

By Anonymous, at 5:02 p.m.
I think Kennedy has made many difficult decisions as education minister. His 10 year record in politics is pretty impressive. Good luck with your candidate. I am still going with Kennedy.

By Anonymous, at 5:05 p.m.
After Alcock and his team lost to the Rockies in 2001, he regrouped and kicked their asses until they were all out of a job. The membership rules were changed so Sapreet could not just march in his midless hoards of instant Sikh "Liberals" to vote for Rock, Diamond took over the Youth Wing, All the riding asociations went to Alcock loyalists, and Alcock even got Bobbi Ethier and the other Rock slaters to join his team.

You're still bitter you lost and have no role in the party anymore. Is this Jeff LeCliar posting or something?

By Anonymous, at 5:17 p.m.
CG
I think it is a little disengenuous to suggest that people are making posts encouraging Kennedy to run. It is debatable of almost all of them but Kinsella for example is almost discouraging him from running, by saying he will get no help from the provincials.
THe more I hear about Kennedy the less and less I like him. This massive posting on the blogs by these Kennedy kids and thier severe case of hero worship is at a minimum laying it on way to thick.
Missisaugapeter spamming every blog he can with his Kennedy is god stuff turns me off more and more everyday.
Top that off with his being a provincial politician and we all know how good they are at crossing over plus his complete lack of any real organization just shows the guy is a non starter.
When I see his hospitality suite at the LPCA convention in Edmonton next month I might start to believe a tenth of the stuff that misspeter is spamming!

By Anonymous, at 5:21 p.m.
The little petty attacks against various Manitoba grits is as interesting as it was 2 years ago...as in not very.

By Anonymous, at 5:32 p.m.
Happeningfish,

This is not your first negative post on Kennedy, so your bias is showing. Support whoever you want, but there has been lots of enthusiastic support for Ignateiff and Kennedy on the blogs and so what??? Big deal, it is not bothering anyone but you. This party needs some excitement and renewal. So, go ahead Liberals, toot your horn for whoever you want. It is encouraging to see the party come alive again.

See you in Edmonton.

By Anonymous, at 5:38 p.m.
happeningfish; I think Kinsella said "I hope he runs".

I'll agree that the wild obsession a lot of the comments posters have for Kennedy seems a little excessive, but it's hard to see how that's a bad thing.

Personally, I've never said I would support Kennedy if he ran. He'd bring a lot to the race and that alone would make the party better off having him run. I'd want to listen to him speak and hear his policy ideas before deciding whether or not to back him but he certainly seems a lot better at first glance than most of the candidates who we have so far.

By calgarygrit, at 5:40 p.m.
I want to encourage Mississauga Pete to keep on posting. The more I hear about Kennedy the more I like him.

By Anonymous, at 5:58 p.m.
OK CG
Kinsella does say he would make an excellent candidate but that he would not support him as he would be working on Daltons reelection. But Best/worst and Dan are both merely reporting about a star article. so it is not right to say they are encouraging him to run.
Picky I suppose but you normally bend over backwards to be accurate so the slight shading surprised me as I am used to your very clear excellence. When I want spin I can go to Kinsella.
As to supporting Kennedy or not I have no idea where I will be in the end but...
If you have a good candidate you do not need to over sell.
All this stuff about a huge organization and tons of support and the fact that his glance can cure cancer and he will be able to cure mad cow by the laying on of hands is a little tiring.
A word of advice to the KennedyKids. Back of a little bit.
This guy is not the second coming of Pierre or King or Laurier. He may turn out to be great in his own right but it does not happen the same way twice and this constant pimping for the Kenn just sounds a little ridiculous.
For example I like Dion and Dryden and Ignatieff. But I will admit Dions' english sucks, Dryden is dull and Ignatieff was out of the country for too long. They all have weaknesses. Kennedy does as well, he must. So lets get a little reality from you guys and then people might be a little more inclined to take you seriously.
I have no bias against Kennedy, but I am rapidaly developing one against the KennedyKids.

Hanging on the blogspot
Pimping for the Kendoll
boom chucka boomchucka
whackawhackawhacka

By Anonymous, at 6:19 p.m.
Happeningfish,

You will get on the boat before it leaves the dock. You will be a happeningdude then.

I appreciate that you refer to me as a KennedyKid. Unfortunately, I started attending Bishop Carroll the same year Warren Kinsella graduated there.

Where did you and Bart go?

By Anonymous, at 9:14 p.m.
Who are those people who revere Alcock? Forgive me for being so rude. But I wouldn't piss on him if he was on fire.Most of the Martinites could hide behind a cork screw. Reg wants to feel important. Nobody's called on him. He's decided to offer his hand to shallow Belinda.
I'm curious as to all the attacks on Kennedy.One might not have all the answers to questions so long as one knows where to tap to get the answers .
With respect to some of the comments, I am want to quote Josh Billings who said,"The trouble is that people know so much that ain't so".

By Anonymous, at 11:28 p.m.
mgk-
I'm told this morning that Gerard is getting his ducks in a row to run for the leadership of the federal Liberal Party.This is precisely the person we need. Now let us get to work and spread the news. Let's roll up our sleeves and encourage others for their help to get Kennedy elected as leader.

By Anonymous, at 4:27 p.m.
Kennedy would be one of the worst things to happen to the party and to the country. He is arrogant, opinionated and has a volatile temper. He holds grudges and targets those with whom he disagrees.

He has set a record for the number of staff that he has gone through. If you want someone who knows everything and doesn't need to waste time talking to the members or the people of Canada - Gerard is your man.

Do some checking to find out how he operates and who he really is!!

By Anonymous, at 1:52 p.m.

Thursday, March 02, 2006

Ask Not What Your Country Can Do For You...

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Thursday, March 02, 2006

Ask Not What Your Country Can Do For You...

65 Comments:

About

Previous

About Me