My Leadership Race Wishlist

What I want to see happen some time between now and December: a compilation of hopes and wishes.

a candidate answers a question about federalism with something other than reavowed support "a strong federal government and strong provinces."

a candidate answers a question about health care with something other than reavowed support for the Canada Health Act

a candidate answers a question about Caledonia/Native land claims or self-government with something other than reavowed support for the Kelowna Accord (which applies to neither)

we realize the absurdity of positioning an issue upon which there is essentially consensus - at least in practical terms - as the defining issue of the leadership campaign (Afghanistan)

Bob Rae demonstrates in clear and uniequivocal terms what makes him other than a New Democrat. This can be in terms of principles, process - anything.

Joe Volpe withdraws from the leadership race, crosses the floor, and resumes his old role as Immigration Minister.

We stop patronizing Martha Hall Findlay with our surprised approval (if she had absolutely no accomplishments to her name, no ability to speak publicly, no ideas, she wouldn't have put herself in this position)

a candidate positions his/herself in opposition to the Meech Lake decentralization that once galvanized the Liberal faithful and is now trumpeted by so many of our would-be leaders

we make a decision collectively - either we agree that effective energy policy can take precedence in the short term over electability in Alberta, or we ceased to pretend that this party is poised to get serious about the environment

We see a more substantial debate generally (Yawn. This comment has been made by everyone and his uncle. But it is us that allow these circumstances to remain. Only when we cease to manufacture enthusiasm everytime our candidate fires off some echoing platitude will this request be taken seriously.)