In the interest of full disclosure I will begin this missive with an admission that I have only once in my life voted for a candidate who was not a New Democrat, and have been a member for nearly half a century. I have worked thousands of volunteer hours during and between elections.
That being said, I have to ask just what the falling under carnal knowledge my representatives in the House of Commons think they are doing. Do they really believe that deliberate obstruction of a vote by physically crowding another member of parliament is appropriate behaviour? Are they unaware that they created the mob scene that led to the prime minister’s contact with another MP?
Now they are using this manufactured incident to delay the business of the elected government by refusing an abject apology and wrapping themselves in unjustifiable outrage. Thomas Mulcair, rather than acting like an adult, is leading the rush and howling condemnation as if some unprecedented crime has been committed. I want to make it clear to my own member of parliament that Mr. Mulcair no longer speaks for me.
Obstructionism and false outrage may be appropriate in the American House of Representatives, but Canadians deserve better. Canadians demand better. If the New Democrats are to remain viable as the force of Canadian progressive thought we must find new leadership that reflects the values and dignity that James Woodsworth and Tommy Douglas brought to our national dialogue.
David Lowther
Mesachie Lake