Poor Gordon Landon. The councillor for York Region was moonlighting as a CPC candidate for Markham-Unionville, but was audacious enough to hope that speaking his mind in public might result in making a difference for his constituents. It made a difference all right. He is no longer the candidate. Imagine having to 'ask permission' from the PMO to speak to the media!
Let this be a lesson to anyone thinking about entering politics. If you expect to get anywhere in federal or provincial politics you must tow the party line or be squashed.
It's a hard lesson, and it exposes an awful paradox of our democratic process. The idea that an individual aspires to public office for the purpose of representing the interests of his constituents is at odds with the reality that party bosses lay down the law and anyone foolish enough to speak on behalf of the people is quickly dispatched.
The fundamental question is do MPs represent the people, or the party? In most cases, I think its the latter.
I have long maintained my desire to serve the people in Ottawa (or at Queen's Park), but the reality is unavoidable: I would be forced to put the priorities of the party above the priorities of the people.
If it's true that Landon stepped aside voluntarily because he couldn't work within the 'confines of partisan politics' then I applaud him for being true to himself and not sacrificing his principles for ambition.
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4 comments:
There was another problem. What Landon said about no stimulus money being spent in his riding was totally wrong. It is one thing to speak out, but another if what you say is BS.
I know lots of candidates who have no trouble speaking to the media and don't need to ask permission from any party. however, what they say had better be true.
What Landon said was just plain stupid. A candidate should never help arm their opponents so easily and readily.
His mouth was moving before his brain was in gear and people like that have no place in politics.
NeilD
"I have long maintained my desire to serve the people in Ottawa (or at Queen's Park), but the reality is unavoidable: I would be forced to put the priorities of the party above the priorities of the people."
Exactly!!!!
I was onced asked if I would allow myself to get drafted and said no.
I like the right to mouth off about all sides being wrong because at times they are all stupid, evil, or working for self interest. Those that claim otherwise are too dishonest/dilusional to serve anyone but themselves.
Despite your choice of party, you are a much more honest blogger than most.
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