Jack Layton carried the NDP a long way. It used to be that Canada's democratic socialist party was relatively weak and powerless in the big scene of Canadian federal politics - I used to laugh at Jack when he said he was running for Prime Minister. But in this year's federal election he launched his party into their greatest success ever, winning over a hundred seats and the Official Opposition status. It wasn't because of the NDP's policies - their campaign practically stated, "Forget our party's policies - vote for Jack Layton, our wonderful leader!" It wasn't because their individual candidates were politically savvy or even particularly qualified to be MPs. It was all because of Jack Layton that they did so well. Canadians greatly admired him, saw his sincerity, and just plain liked him.
And now the NDP's saviour is gone. Perhaps in the short term Canadians will want to support the party Jack left behind, sort of as a way of keeping his legacy alive. But in the long run - for example, four years from now, when Canada goes back to the polls - Jack won't be able to help them. It'll be tough, unforgiving Canadian politics as usual. When the NDP's inexperienced MPs make mistakes, Canadians won't simply ignore the errors because, "Oh, Jack used to be part of their party." When Canadians compare the parties' platforms, they'll still vote for the party they agree with the most. When the leaders debates rage and voters look for the best leaders, deceased leaders won't come into play.
So how well will the NDP fare without Jack? He was the main reason Canadians voted orange, so the NDP better find a new reason, and fast. The obvious solution seems to be finding another good leader. Having many inexperienced MPs also makes strong leadership essential. But Jack Laytons don't grow on trees. Perhaps their best bet would be to turn all of Jack's big fans into big fans of socialism. That's also easier said than done.
There's no doubt about it - the NDP is heading into rough times. But with strong leadership, sound policies, and effective campaigning, they may be able to hold on to their position as "one of Canada's three major parties".
I've written a lot about the NDP on my blog recently, because they became they broke into the predictable pattern of
Liberals 1st, Conservatives 2nd, then Conservatives 1st, Liberals 2nd. They made history, made politics more interesting and dynamic, and are now an great subject of speculation. But how are all these other parties doing? Let's take a look...
Ok, the Conservatives are really pushing their arctic thing. Harper must really like it up there or something. Well, my advice to him is this: "Keep away from the US. We really have to distance ourselves from their crazy recession-causing economy!" Actually, maybe that's why he likes it up in the arctic... it must be so peaceful thousands of kilometers away from the States.
The Liberals have been trying to remind Canadians of everything they've done for our country in the past. I say, "Bring me a good leader, here in the present, and then we'll talk." I personally haven't heard much about their search for a new leader, but there's no need to rush - they've got years until the next campaign, and I'm guessing that Bob Rae is enjoying his little chance to finally be in charge of his party.
The Bloc Québécois has been rather silent of late. Their grand total of 4 MPs must still be in shock over their party's major crash in support. In my opinion, four separatist MPs is still four too many.
Elizabeth May doesn't seem to realize she's a caucus of only one, throwing her proverbial weight around like a major party leader. Good strategy. But fortunately she's still only got the practical power of a mere independent MP in the House of Commons.
Things will be interesting in politics these next couple of years - three major leadership races, parties soul searching and trying to determine their new directions, new MPs in office...
Good thing the Conservatives have a majority - they can run Canada without interference while all the other parties rebuild.
