Harper and his cabinet were sworn in the other day; I've felt compelled to give my take as it has attracted some negative attention. The cabinet has been described as "a clear nod toward quite a pragmatic, centrist style government", "the old grassroots Reform party is dead, dead, dead", "a final transition away from the Reform party". Harper has taken back his original Reform party, which had been taken over by social conservatives (caused him to leave the party).

The cabinet represents a highly experienced and talented team of people from all areas of the country. Unlike Martin's cabinet full of no-name leftovers from the Chretien massacre; Harper's people are well known and high profile. It's no wonder Stronach left the party as the talent in this new party is immense and she just wasn't getting time to speak or make any party decisions. I bring up Stronach as people have been quick to compare Stronach to Emerson, the LIberal turned Conservative after the election. There is a clear distinction between Stronach and Emerson; raw ambition vs. collaboration. Emerson was a star candidate, sat as a minister in Martin's cabinet and was proud in waving the Liberal flag. He was obviously not impressed with how the Liberals postioned themselves this election (proposing no new/relevant policy, unjustified smear campaign) and with the void in leadership; it's no wonder he left, I'm surprised more didn't change sides.

This brings us to the other touchy decision; Michael Fortier. This decision was more controversial as he was not elected, yet will represent an elected position. While I think this decision was a short term mistake; on the long term it may become a great move by Harper. The Conservatives are now a formidible force in Quebec, but no representation in Canada's second largest city; Montreal needs a say within the government. This is not much different than Josee Verner who sat in Harper's shadow cabinet, raising her profile and allowing her to break into Quebec with a seat. Michael Fortier will represent Montreal well, will be a talented minister and maintain accountable through his senate nomination. He was the president of the Progressive Conservative party and ran for the leadership of the party.

Great team, now lets get going on these promises!

This entry was posted on Friday, February 10 at 11:39 a.m.. You can skip to the end and leave a response.