The Cases for Christy Clark

This blog is basically a compilation of endorsements, but not in the usual way. They are not the standard collection of mindless pabulum dashed out by hacks who view the party more as an end unto itself rather than the means to one. They are written by real people from their own perspectives, but without their names. The point is not to impress that Christy Clark has the support of Joe Witherington McGee from the Chamber of Commerce in this town or another, but rather lay out reasons and arguments as to why Christy Clark would be the best leader from the perspective of one type of person or another.

This blog seeks to answer the question “Why would a student, a business leader, a party stalwart, an independent, and so many more, support Christy Clark?” Over the next few days, we will be posting these cases in hopes of encouraging support, and pushing this fantastic prospective candidate to run.

The Party Stalwart

I have been a member of the BC Liberal party for as long as I have lived in this province – six years. I have volunteered on elections and by-elections, have been involved in riding associations and campus clubs, and truly think that the coalition that makes up the BC Liberals is a tremendous force for good governance and economic growth in BC.

The BC Liberal party is approaching one of those rare turning points in the history of a political organization. This leadership convention is not only the selection of the next leader of the party, and for that matter the province, but party members will be deciding whether or not the party will remain a viable political entity, or whether it will relegate itself to the dustbin of history, bereft of popular support or political capital, unable to win elections or effect change.

This leadership election will be a test as to whether or not the mass membership of the party can be responsive to the demands being made of it by the BC electorate at all. The party must demonstrate that it is responsive to the needs of the people. It must, in making its choice for leader, choose someone who understands the needs of British Columbians, is in contact with them on a regular basis, and clearly demonstrates that they are willing to listen and able to learn.

The party must also make practical considerations. It must work to preserve itself as a viable political force. The coalition between the right and centre must be held firm, and not hurl the party wildly to either extreme of the party’s political space.

This is not a choice that is being made in the abstract, either. Nor is this a choice that is going to have a perfect solution – the saviour on the white steed that will ride in and save the blue and red besmocked damsel in distress. There are real people in this race, and they must be evaluated with respect to the goals the party sets for itself. Does it want renewal? Does it want to preserve the coalition? Does it want a leader with charisma?

There is only one person who has the ability to renew the party. Diane Watts was wrong when she said that this should be an internal contest. We need the new blood and new leadership to maintain and grow the party. Christy Clark is experienced, a household name, charismatic and competent. She can hold our party together and govern our province well. Any Cabinet member is going to have the taint of this recent government, whether rightly or wrongly deserved, to deal with. With Christy Clark, we can revitalize, renew, and earn back the trust of the BC electorate.