My only issue, and it's not insignificant, is that Jason Kenney created an awful lot of the animosity taking place in rural Alberta right now. Yes, it was always there, but he unlocked the door, unleashed the anger, gave it a voice, and it's far too late to cram it all back where it belongs. I don't deny Kenney's love for Canada, but his attacks on Justin Trudeau, the ABNDP, and "over-caffeinated" laptop leftists should never be forgiven. Kenney bears much of the responsibility for the mess we currently find ourselves in.
I will also point out that Charles Adler had a hand in building it up as well and few recall his past as he has worked to make amends for it.
Fun fact: I reached out to him to have that conversation the year before he realized that he was changing his own mind. He politely declined but then broke down on national television during the 2019 federal election panel as it seemed to come to a head for him.
I was stuck on that post for two days. I had been trying to work around some of the better caucus members but I couldn’t even convince myself it would be possible to see any of them stand up. Once I stopped trying to force that, I landed on something that I think is plausible, at least.
No! We do not need Jason Kenney again! Have you forgotten the shit show he was in charge of when he was Premier? Of course, I didn’t think it would get worse when he was ousted but it sure as hell did. I almost wish Kenney was back - almost. Danielle’s days are numbered.
If tge goal is to reach out and be truly bipartisan in government, my dream team of "special advisers" to Carney and his cabinet would be Lisa Raitt, Rona Ambrose, and Erin O'Toole .
Each of them are lifelong Conservatives. And each of them have shown in their public conduct and comments a refreshing pragmatism that supersedes ideology-limited thinking.
There maybe better angels riding with Kenney, and maybe he could be relied on to rise to the occasion...... but he hasn't ever been able to resist throwing schoolboy political smears - it fatally undermines any credibility he's been building. I've been more impressed by O'Toole lately, but as you pointed up, once push comes to shove, he slots right behind tribally with PP as the Con leader.
Can-Cons find Trumpism politically useful to atomize political opposition and advance their legislative agendas here in Canada. Until they are thumped at the polls and it is made clear to them "Why", I don't see maple-MAGA flavour or temper of current Conservative retail politics changing - at all. In some quarters, its hardened in something much worse. The folly of the Cons is thinking they can ride the fascy tiger they've invited in - its on leash they insist. Their smirking ironic "Who Me?" naiveity will not save them when it snaps their damn fool heads off.
Here is to hoping democratic norms and conventions hold here in Alberta, and in Canada. Headwinds abound - here in Alberta, we have political vandals at the helm, who are holding the door open to separtiste home invaders flush with dark money. Similar but different idiocy is taking root again in Quebec. We seem to be such an unserious country.
I’m not in the least torn about Kenney. You’re correct he is a Canadian, a supporter of the country but, as a couple of your commenters noted, he is divisive. But he’s also a conservative ideologue and his past actions say he’s not to be trusted.
He too supported the orange felon, he too has taken anti LGBTQ… actions, he has shown us his “whiteness” is a factor.
I think, or rather I hope, there’s a better champion out there for the conservative movement to rally behind. Oddly while doing some home wiring I stumbled across an old book by Diefenbaker called My Canada or One Canada, I’ll have to check.
Hi Deirdre, first let me say that I enjoy reading your posts and I think your work is exquisite. I would like to say also that I think Jason Kenney is a prick, too, although not to the obnoxious degree of Mr. "Hawk" Hoeskstra. I see Kenney as a spoilt child all grown up with that sense of entitlement, self-righteousness and self-serving (actually, he reminds me a lot of Danielle Smith, sorry I digress). His haughty dissing of BC Premier David Eby on "Power & Politics", calling him unCanadian and unpatriotic and such because he doesn't want that damnable pipeline to Prince Rupert (I don't either and wrote a letter to Ms. Smith reminding her what a boondoggle is - be happy to share it with you). I don't think he cares for Canada more than any other red-blooded Canuck. Cheers.
Thought provoking article. It seems the 'conservative' party has re-made itself so much so its lost its roots and fibre. It is populist and this reveals itself constantly with discriminatory bias against people - of colour, where they were born, what religion they espouse, against women through their voiced support for removing a woman's right to govern her own body, against DEI because they have converted this fairness view to be anti-young males. They are bereft of solid policy ideas that would advance this country through support of all citizens.
They tend to divide to conquer - including the women in the party. That's weird. Rona Ambrose might be the exception? I thought O'Tool might be the exception but no - he's still mired in anti-Justine politics and anti DEI and other populist ideas this version of conservatives espouse.
Real conservatives have disappeared. Daniel Smith should not be allowed to use the word 'conservative' but, well, it's part of her game of deception.
Pierre Poilievre isn’t a conservative in the way I was raised or influenced— he’s a wannabe populist who failed at populism. How many conservative diehards can you think of who realized (publicly) their party was wrong? Charles Adler is the only one who stands out. Even Kenney was called a “liberal” for following public health advice. They don’t have “the silent majority”, we do. Jason Kenney could do something great for Canada (better even if it wasn’t trying to relaunch his political career) because he loves his country. Canada needs those voices. Unfortunately, it would benefit conservative electoral fortunes as well but… we need their help.
Anyone who supports the racist, misogynistic, xenophobic POTUS who thinks he has the right to forcefully take over the western hemisphere and who is enabling the cold blooded murder of U.S. citizens does not deserve a place in Canadian government. So, no, I don't believe we need the voice of pierre and, no, I don't believe he loves Canada. I believe that, like trump, he is only capable of caring about himself.
I don’t think he needs to be in (or trying to be in) government to do what he can to stand up for Canada. Instead, I believe that his lack of formal position is a benefit to allow him to defend our sovereignty strongly and without fear.
What I see when I look at pierre is a narcissist. Outside of that, I see a person cheering on a fascist who is coming after Canada. Not sure how that lines up with him standing up for Canada. His behaviour is abhorrent. You will not change my mind.
For me, there is no indication that Jason Kenney "loves" Canada. Nor would that be on the top of my criteria list for a competent, capable party leader.
What is obvious is his "farting around" with various political party affiliations over his career: Reform, Alliance, Conservative, provincial Progressive Conservative, and now United Conservative. Kenney bounces. Not in a manner of resilience, though. To me, that smacks of opportunism or wishy-washiness.
Someone who can't seem to settle or focus is open to outside influences. It would seem his inner compass spins. Also, I have watched his behaviour in the House for some time now and he is as disingenuous and two-faced as MP's come. ❤️🇨🇦
For all of Jason Kenney’s faults, and I know there are many, he is a staunch federalist. I don’t think he would try and lead a party but that’s not what I was looking at him for— it was to be the pro-Canada voice because I don’t think we can count on the CPC.
Anyone who falls for the weak pablum these conservatives spew in response to Trump and then feels “disappointed” because they know these people are patriots needs to read up on narcissistic abuse and the people who enable it
These people aren’t anything but enablers for an authoritarianism.
If they aren’t full throated in being part of the solution, they are part of the problem
Never doubt the destruction that comes from denial
Great article, Deirdre.
My only issue, and it's not insignificant, is that Jason Kenney created an awful lot of the animosity taking place in rural Alberta right now. Yes, it was always there, but he unlocked the door, unleashed the anger, gave it a voice, and it's far too late to cram it all back where it belongs. I don't deny Kenney's love for Canada, but his attacks on Justin Trudeau, the ABNDP, and "over-caffeinated" laptop leftists should never be forgiven. Kenney bears much of the responsibility for the mess we currently find ourselves in.
I absolutely agree with you!
I will also point out that Charles Adler had a hand in building it up as well and few recall his past as he has worked to make amends for it.
Fun fact: I reached out to him to have that conversation the year before he realized that he was changing his own mind. He politely declined but then broke down on national television during the 2019 federal election panel as it seemed to come to a head for him.
https://globalnews.ca/video/6069048/radio-host-charles-adler-on-conservative-politics
I agree.
Good post Deirdre, agree with both of you. Like Charlie Angus said shut up, Danielle”, “grow up Pierre”
I was stuck on that post for two days. I had been trying to work around some of the better caucus members but I couldn’t even convince myself it would be possible to see any of them stand up. Once I stopped trying to force that, I landed on something that I think is plausible, at least.
No! We do not need Jason Kenney again! Have you forgotten the shit show he was in charge of when he was Premier? Of course, I didn’t think it would get worse when he was ousted but it sure as hell did. I almost wish Kenney was back - almost. Danielle’s days are numbered.
I don’t want him to be premier haha I just want him to use his powers for good in the public opinion realm!
If tge goal is to reach out and be truly bipartisan in government, my dream team of "special advisers" to Carney and his cabinet would be Lisa Raitt, Rona Ambrose, and Erin O'Toole .
Each of them are lifelong Conservatives. And each of them have shown in their public conduct and comments a refreshing pragmatism that supersedes ideology-limited thinking.
I’m not asking them to team up with government — I want a coalition of the willing to fight for Canada and I think they could do it on their own.
There maybe better angels riding with Kenney, and maybe he could be relied on to rise to the occasion...... but he hasn't ever been able to resist throwing schoolboy political smears - it fatally undermines any credibility he's been building. I've been more impressed by O'Toole lately, but as you pointed up, once push comes to shove, he slots right behind tribally with PP as the Con leader.
Can-Cons find Trumpism politically useful to atomize political opposition and advance their legislative agendas here in Canada. Until they are thumped at the polls and it is made clear to them "Why", I don't see maple-MAGA flavour or temper of current Conservative retail politics changing - at all. In some quarters, its hardened in something much worse. The folly of the Cons is thinking they can ride the fascy tiger they've invited in - its on leash they insist. Their smirking ironic "Who Me?" naiveity will not save them when it snaps their damn fool heads off.
Here is to hoping democratic norms and conventions hold here in Alberta, and in Canada. Headwinds abound - here in Alberta, we have political vandals at the helm, who are holding the door open to separtiste home invaders flush with dark money. Similar but different idiocy is taking root again in Quebec. We seem to be such an unserious country.
I’m not in the least torn about Kenney. You’re correct he is a Canadian, a supporter of the country but, as a couple of your commenters noted, he is divisive. But he’s also a conservative ideologue and his past actions say he’s not to be trusted.
He too supported the orange felon, he too has taken anti LGBTQ… actions, he has shown us his “whiteness” is a factor.
I think, or rather I hope, there’s a better champion out there for the conservative movement to rally behind. Oddly while doing some home wiring I stumbled across an old book by Diefenbaker called My Canada or One Canada, I’ll have to check.
Let’s bring Dief back!
Are you trying to convince yourself or us?
My optimism knows no bounds, apparently.
Hi Deirdre, first let me say that I enjoy reading your posts and I think your work is exquisite. I would like to say also that I think Jason Kenney is a prick, too, although not to the obnoxious degree of Mr. "Hawk" Hoeskstra. I see Kenney as a spoilt child all grown up with that sense of entitlement, self-righteousness and self-serving (actually, he reminds me a lot of Danielle Smith, sorry I digress). His haughty dissing of BC Premier David Eby on "Power & Politics", calling him unCanadian and unpatriotic and such because he doesn't want that damnable pipeline to Prince Rupert (I don't either and wrote a letter to Ms. Smith reminding her what a boondoggle is - be happy to share it with you). I don't think he cares for Canada more than any other red-blooded Canuck. Cheers.
How come no one's mentioned Thomas Lukaszuk?
He’s not federal and he’s busy with gearing up for the forever Canadian campaign.
Neither is Danielle. But you're right. In Alberta, Forever Canadian is vital.
Thought provoking article. It seems the 'conservative' party has re-made itself so much so its lost its roots and fibre. It is populist and this reveals itself constantly with discriminatory bias against people - of colour, where they were born, what religion they espouse, against women through their voiced support for removing a woman's right to govern her own body, against DEI because they have converted this fairness view to be anti-young males. They are bereft of solid policy ideas that would advance this country through support of all citizens.
They tend to divide to conquer - including the women in the party. That's weird. Rona Ambrose might be the exception? I thought O'Tool might be the exception but no - he's still mired in anti-Justine politics and anti DEI and other populist ideas this version of conservatives espouse.
Real conservatives have disappeared. Daniel Smith should not be allowed to use the word 'conservative' but, well, it's part of her game of deception.
Pierre Poilievre isn’t a conservative in the way I was raised or influenced— he’s a wannabe populist who failed at populism. How many conservative diehards can you think of who realized (publicly) their party was wrong? Charles Adler is the only one who stands out. Even Kenney was called a “liberal” for following public health advice. They don’t have “the silent majority”, we do. Jason Kenney could do something great for Canada (better even if it wasn’t trying to relaunch his political career) because he loves his country. Canada needs those voices. Unfortunately, it would benefit conservative electoral fortunes as well but… we need their help.
No truer words written recently than
"but we need conservative leaders who can focus on what’s best for Canada and it is not partisan division."
Same holds true for true conservatives in Alberta, those who have not abandoned their principles to kiss Danielle's ring.
Maybe my MLA will stand up and show us Dale Nally still has his?
I wish. I really think their refusal to admit Trump was a real threat during the election has become true for them. That’s how they’re acting, to me.
Anyone who supports the racist, misogynistic, xenophobic POTUS who thinks he has the right to forcefully take over the western hemisphere and who is enabling the cold blooded murder of U.S. citizens does not deserve a place in Canadian government. So, no, I don't believe we need the voice of pierre and, no, I don't believe he loves Canada. I believe that, like trump, he is only capable of caring about himself.
I don’t think he needs to be in (or trying to be in) government to do what he can to stand up for Canada. Instead, I believe that his lack of formal position is a benefit to allow him to defend our sovereignty strongly and without fear.
He supports all of the corrupt illegal things trump does. He is not interested in supporting Canada.
He is a staunch federalist. He may be too easily led by partisan BS to find his way, but he is a federalist. It was part of his downfall as premier.
What I see when I look at pierre is a narcissist. Outside of that, I see a person cheering on a fascist who is coming after Canada. Not sure how that lines up with him standing up for Canada. His behaviour is abhorrent. You will not change my mind.
For me, there is no indication that Jason Kenney "loves" Canada. Nor would that be on the top of my criteria list for a competent, capable party leader.
What is obvious is his "farting around" with various political party affiliations over his career: Reform, Alliance, Conservative, provincial Progressive Conservative, and now United Conservative. Kenney bounces. Not in a manner of resilience, though. To me, that smacks of opportunism or wishy-washiness.
Someone who can't seem to settle or focus is open to outside influences. It would seem his inner compass spins. Also, I have watched his behaviour in the House for some time now and he is as disingenuous and two-faced as MP's come. ❤️🇨🇦
For all of Jason Kenney’s faults, and I know there are many, he is a staunch federalist. I don’t think he would try and lead a party but that’s not what I was looking at him for— it was to be the pro-Canada voice because I don’t think we can count on the CPC.
Anyone who falls for the weak pablum these conservatives spew in response to Trump and then feels “disappointed” because they know these people are patriots needs to read up on narcissistic abuse and the people who enable it
These people aren’t anything but enablers for an authoritarianism.
If they aren’t full throated in being part of the solution, they are part of the problem
Never doubt the destruction that comes from denial
Kenney is no conservative, just another Harpo🤡reform wild rose oil company purchase. American oil company. The definition of fascist.