The race for the Presidency of the Liberal party was an embarrassment of riches. I could listen to Ron Hartling talk about re-building riding associations for hours. Ms. Copps’ speeches on the strength of the Liberal ideal and the need to reach out to the LGBTQ community were truly inspiring. Alexandra Mendès brought a wealth of experience from parliament and beyond to the race.
I sent Alexandra (she insisted I call her by her first name) some questions as a sort of post-convention exit-interview. Like Mr. Hartling and Ms. Copps she will be a great asset to the Liberal Party as we rebuild.
1. What was the highlight of the convention for you?
Friday evening, after the opening ceremonies, the tribute to Michael Ignatieff and his “thank you” to the Party, after Bob’s fantastic and energizing message, and the debate between the four of us, I had a great surge in energy and confidence with the many flattering comments I received for my “clarity”. It was the perfect feeling to meet supporters and friends at the hospitality suite.
2. What would you change about the election process for the executive of the Liberal Party of Canada?
There are two changes that I think are necessary to ensure a fairer process, both for the candidates and for the members:
a) Preferential balloting. I still don’t understand why the NBoD and the Returning Officer refused to consider the use of such a method; By-law 5 provides for discretion on their part and they chose not to exercise it. With more than 3 candidates in three of the races, it was simply logical to opt for preferential balloting. And all members should be allowed to vote (phone, website, mail)
b) Rules for fundraising and expenses: to ensure fairness and transparency in the process, the rules for these internal elections should emulate Elections Canada rules for general elections. The only exception, to preserve Liberal unity after the races are over, would be to keep donors names confidential (only available to the Returning Officer).
3. What should activists like me be doing to help with the rebuilding process now that the convention is over?
I think you are already doing a lot Joseph! Writing a blog on Liberal issues is a very important aspect of our outreach and all of you who collaborate on Liblogs are doing a very credible job of keeping us relevant. For all those who would like more “local” means of helping us in the rebuilding process, I absolutely recommend Jeff Clark’s proposal for “High-jacking” the Liberal Party. Our riding associations need reinvigorating forces, new ideas and young people who care! We have relied so very heavily on volunteers who have been with the Party for decades… I am humbled by their loyalty and their phenomenal capacity for enthusiasm when we need their help. But if we want to engage those who will be most affected by governance decision-making in the decades to come, we need to open our doors to their input right now!
4.What role would you like to play in rebuilding the Liberal Party moving forward?
Anything the Party sees fit to “use” me for. I’ve offered my services both to the President and the Leader and I’ll continue to actively participate in Liberal renewal in Quebec.
5. Would you consider running as a candidate for the LPC in the 2015 election?
As I’ve stated numerous times, if Brossard – La Prairie members so decide, I would very much like to be the Liberal Party of Canada candidate in 2015.
