Just how much political damage can Maxime Bernier cause to Andrew Scheer, Leader of the Conservative Party, in the run up to the next election?
More importantly, will Bernier’s well known libertarian principles impact our national discourse, possibly shifting the debate, not only for Scheer, but for all leaders? Will “Mad Max” be a lightning rod for discontent, or simply a safety valve for malcontents?
As Bernier embarks on a series of rallies in his new role as leader of the People’s Party of Canada, commentators are divided on his potential impact.
Andrew Scheer’s victory over Bernier was dramatic as they competed for leadership of the Conservative Party. Bernier was edged out on the 13th ballot, after having led on the initial 12. Scheer won with 50.95 per cent of the vote, leaving his opponent with 49.05 per cent.
Bernier’s website echoes his past as it refers to his platform as a Conservative leadership candidate, but he clearly envisions a future. Members can sign up for five years.
Straying far from his contempt for the policy of supply management and corporate subsidies, Bernier has also heightened the rhetoric on sensitive social issues. He states that immigration levels must decline and that immigrants must adapt to Canadian values.
Rather than being a climate denier, he is a climate dismisser.
He takes aim at iconic Canadian institutions, such as the CBC and Radio Canada.
However, he too, faces obstacles. There is no way he can field, let alone find, 308 serious and vetted candidates for the next election. There is no way he will be able to equal the fundraising efforts of the main stream parties. There is no way he can mount a disciplined, national “get out the vote” organization.
Bernier will no doubt use every new social media tool and smart app, but “boots on the ground” require commitment — not hype.
Scheer’s main advantage is a massive party machine and an experienced caucus, which he is attempting to fire up by noting that “The Liberals are going to throw everything they have at us. It’s going to get worse. It’s going to get nasty.”
Sorry, Mr. Scheer, It’s not only the Liberals that will be throwing everything at you. Stand by for Round Two of the 2017 Conservative leadership contest, which will take place in October 2019.
This time all Canadians will have a vote.
