I'm not the biggest fan of Dalton McGuinty. My opinion is based mostly on his politics, and his government's general conduct, than any personal dislike- I have met the man and found him to be a far more charismatic guy in person, than on television. Yesterday he started hinting at his eventual retirement even if he wins this October's provincial election, a fact which probably put a smile on the face of many Progressive Conservatives everywhere- and quite a few Ontarians including myself.
Even though I'm not a fan, I don't think it should end like this. The way he's talking of his eventual departure makes it a self-fulfilling prophecy; and it does his party no favours. Barring any major catastrophe on the P.C.'s part, the Liberals are probably going to lose this October's election. But let's say for the sake of argument they win, and McGuinty is looking at another 4 year term as Premier (in the case of a majority). And as he's hinting he steps down within a couple of years; two years for his successor to get their feet wet before having to fight another election- it makes total sense from the Liberals point-of-view.
There's another possible outcome: what if he wins with a minority? The same scenario applies- but look at the consequences. A minority as we see on the federal scene is under the constant threat of an election. If McGuinty leaves after that two year period, there could be a new election. Are we willing to have a minority on the federal, and provincial levels?
The Liberal Party is already facing an uphill battle they probably won't win. McGuinty should either resign now, and let the new leader begin the eventual makeover that will eventually happen. Or he should've kept his mouth shut and tried to rally his troops. As the saying goes, the captain should always go down with the ship.
No comments:
Post a Comment