Layton and the NDP Window

May 7, 2005

Traditionally, even if you’d like to, you don’t vote NDP. Why? Well, an NDP vote is seen as a throw-away vote, it is simply not going to make a real impact. Sure, there are some ridings where this is not the case, where NDP might even be heavily favoured, but on the whole, an NDP vote is nothing more than a gesture. And I think this idea has become fused with the party’s image. The public, the political community, even the NDP itself, take the party somewhat lightly, complacently. NDP perpetuate this image with “kid brother” politics and underdog dialogue (now that rolls off the tongue, I must say). The result, NDP’s power is confined and cyclically renewed as minor. Despite a small resurgence under Layton from the dismal 2000 election, historically, the NDP doesn’t crest past 20% of the vote (I think doing this once, I could be wrong).
Now, however, an unusual and interesting opportunity has presented itself to the NDP. The people are tired. Liberal and conservative options seem like no option at all. The chance to shed the little guy image is now. Why is this?
A recent Ipsos-Reid poll was conducted on the effects of Gomery of voter’s intentions and opinions. Now, the only real conclusion the media could hop was tainted by interests. Conservative sources saw the results of sliding Liberal support. Liberals interpreted, of course, a sympathetic view. What I found interesting was the improved/worsened opinion question of the respective political leaders. Had recent events changed your view on those leaders, in effect? Where it is no surprise that PM’s image took somewhat of a slide, but Harper had interesting results. Opinion of him was split- 27% of people asked improved and 27% thought less of Harper. It would seem people aren’t too keen on Harper’s politics at the moment either. I completely understand. His posturing and rhetoric whisper concern for power, not justice. Whether this is actually the case, this is how he is percieved outside conservative circles. Layton, on the other hand, took a considerable boost. I can see why. Passing a budget that championed NDP politics whilst continuing to focus on the implications of Gomery was a major NDP score. Strong politics and consistency, you have to like that. We see then, while Harper is standing over the people and Paul Martin is begging below, Layton and the NDP come off with somewhat of a newly acquired stride.
So, we approach what seems like an inevitable election. And it is clear the NDP have window of opportunity just gaping for them. To translate that stride into a strong run and outdistance the detrimental image dogging them must be their focus. The question is, “How is this done?”, and “Is Layton strong enough for the job?”

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  1. Analysis of the new poll

    The latest Ipsos Reid poll was released today at 6am for public consumption. The poll shows the Liberals and the Conservatives in a virtual tie with 32% and 31% voter support, respectively. As for seat rich Ontario ™, the Liberals lead the Conservat…

    Trackback by Stephen Taylor - Conservative Party of Canada Pundit — May 7, 2005 @ 8:34 pm

  2. Good post. I think Layton is listening to some pretty wise heads, specifically Robin Sears and Ed Broadbent. If anybody can figure out a way to move ahead, its those two.

    Comment by Greg — June 7, 2005 @ 11:04 pm

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