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Being Michael Ignatieff

From Saturday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 9:23 AM EDT 04/09/06

Charm, big ideas, and ruthlessness ...Read the full article

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  1. Scot Affleck from Prince George B.C., Canada writes: Sad to say, my friend Iggy, but you may have qualifications coming out yer kazoo, but in order to be a leader, you must have a gimmick. Something special. In a word, 'it'. You don't have 'it', in my opinion nor a lot of other people's opinions. Good luck anyway. As someone once opined, 'Canada is a difficult country to govern'. (Let alone get the brass ring). Keep trying. And try to learn from this.
  2. john chuckman from Toronto, Canada writes: Please, this article should have come with a hazard warning: contains toxic sludge. And that photo! You'd think it was Aristotle contemplating the bust of Socrates. How about running a far more representative one with Ignatieff gazing indifferently at the dismembered bodies of Iraqi children?
  3. Old Fart from Edmonton, Canada writes: Michael Ignatieff says, “The point about ruthlessness that's important is that I am prepared to pay the price of my own life. You can pay your own bill, but inflicting the cost on other people is very hard — and you do get up in the night and think of that.” It's interesting to note that Ignatieff doesn't express any regret, just a lack of sleep for a few moments in the night. Michael, please go back to your country(USA). We don't need your self-serving moronic ramblings to keep us awake!
  4. Billy Bob from Canada writes: 'Liberal leader' - just another line on the C.V. God help us all.
  5. Tom Paine from Common Sense, Canada writes: Do we want as our PM a man who, despite his alleged brillianced, six months before the attack of September 11 was claiming that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction and the means to deliver them and wondered why Bush would not publicly acknowledge that fact? Do we want as PM a man who after the invasion of Iraq was, in public lectures, linking his support of that invasion to the issue of terrorism? Ignatieff may be an idealist, he may be able to spin words well, and he agonizes well, but he is gullible and shows poor judgement with respect to facts. He bears a great responsibility for having created the atmosphere which allowed Bush to launch a war which has become a disaster and which diverted attention from the far greater risk that is Afghanistan. Mr.Valpy appears not to have challenged Mr. Ignatieff to explain just how the invasion of Iraq could have been conducted in a way that would have achieved his goals. Given Mr.Ignatieff's own recognition that stability is necessary before one can talk of human rights, and given that Iraq today so clearly demonstrates that fact, it is difficult to imagine what fantasies the brilliant Mr. Ignatieff had about the reality of Iraq before the invasion that allowed him to ignore hiis own insights. It is hard not to conclude that Mr. Ignatieff is not simply a Bush neo-conservative in disguise.
  6. lenny jones from Bangkok, Thailand writes: Jaysus! The King of the Carpet-Baggers. This pompous clown is so wrong for leader of the Liberals or as PM. If the fools pushing him as a candidate have any sense they will orchestrate his defeat at the convention or see the Cons form a majority. The only thing this shameless opportunist has been consistent about in his life is his own selfish ambitions. The prospect of Harper, someone who has stated his contempt for Canada and its people for years, and Ignatieff, an attention seeking yank-wannabe sycophant, facing each other in a federal election and deigning to tell Canadians what's best for them, makes me physically ill.
  7. Anton Berger from Kelowna, Canada writes: Ignatieff may well indeed have what it takes to survive, even flourish, as a politician. but that isn't the issue in my mind. what I would like to know, and what this article doesn't explain, is where does his loyalty lie? will he stand up for Canada, or expediently sell it out to foreign interests? will our only effective choices for guarding the Canadian hen-house be Harper's fox, or Ignatieff's wolf?
  8. Ian McCorriston from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada writes: Mr. Ignatieff sure has had a varied and successful career so far. However, his penchant for discarding his friends so brutally when he tires of his career-de-jour is disturbing. Would he be as brutal to us Canadians when he tires of us again? Also, as another fat kid, I find his treatment of his brother Andrew despicable. Canada doesn't need another mean spirited Prime Minister.
  9. Ed Scissorhands from Vancouver, Canada writes: Honestly, I'm not sure what I think of the fellow. On the one hand, I can respect his accomplishments. On the other hand, I don't understand how he can justify his support for the invasion of Iraq, _as it was presented by the American administration_, a significant detail that highlights questions of governance that I'm not sure he has publicly addressed. I think that Mr. Rae might be a safer choice as Liberal Party leader; but I'm also aware of his seemingly unpopular reputation in Ontario (though I'm not sure it's as bad as some would have us believe). We'll see.
  10. dwight steadman from Fort Macleod, Canada writes: God help Canada if this guy ever becomes PM.
  11. Theo Anderson from Osaka Japan, Canada writes: A truely dazzling and terrifying man. The class warrior in myself instantely is reproachful towards such gradeur, but I must grudgingly acknowledge that with grandeur comes greatness. It is my hope that he can bring Canada along with him to the highest peaks on the international and domestic stages. He does not deserve to lead the liberals the way that canadites such as Dion do, a man who has given so much to this country but I have faith in him. I am supporting Ignitieff to be next liberal leader, although not without fear. I hope that I am betting on a better gamble then he was in the Iraq war. Let the dark horse ride.
  12. Pierre Martin from Saguenay, Canada writes: At the end of the day Mr. Ignatieff is a smart academic individual that would help the liberal winning a majority governement with another candidate as the leader. To me there is a really good chance that Gerard Kennedy would make it happen with his magic!
  13. paul summerville from victoria, Canada writes: Knowing this man from the distance and intimacy that only television allows (I confess only to having one of his books on my shelf and only having glanced thorough it) I have been struck by his constant use of the phrase “let me tell you” in his public appearances. I found it jarring coming from a newly minted public figure trying hard not to look like a Professor. “Let me tell you” sums Michael up for me; and this excellent piece confirms my suspicions. You can just hear him telling his family members, his friends both current and discarded, and others where he was going and why they could or could not come along -- 'let me tell you'. It is in this context that I find his position on Iraq so troubling. In his tremendous focus on what was so right and noble about America toppling the Iraqi government there was total blindness about what it might mean for all the other things that governments are supposed to do and particularly the government of the United States. That the cost to the public purse meant that fewer children got good schooling, that more people went without medical care, that the underclass of American society would likely bear the brutal brunt of combat. And, for a great power, one that largely makes the rules of the international game, that America’s voice in other things and about the conduct of other countries would be blunted perhaps even stilled and sullied. It was the certainty of his view on Iraq -- now so clearly mistaken -- that scares me; “let me tell you”. It should scare Canadians too.
  14. Mervin Hollingsworth from Saskatoon, Canada writes: Well can we expect a biography on all of the leadership candidates for the Liberal party? Iam sure the other candidates are waiting for their interviews. Sorry Globe I fell asleep and didn't finish the article. Like Mr. Ignatieff it was boring. However, is this who the Globe wants to win the race? There is one thing I know. Mr. Ignatieff is the poster boy of a citizen of convenience. If we accused some our Lebanese citizens of being citizens of convenience then the title apply applies to Mr. Ignatieff. He has not lived in Canada in the past 30 years. Most people are not interested in a propaganda piece on his personal life. Find out what his political beliefs are and what he intends on doing with the country if he is elected leader. I am not interested in reading a fluff piece on any of the candidates.
  15. Cathie Sindall from Hamilton, Canada writes: An interesting piece on Liberal hopeful, Michael Ignatieff. It seems, however, the Globe and Mail is falling in to the trap of fighting 'the last' war when it comes to its coverage of the current Liberal leadership race. The new leader, whoever they may be, will likely never become Prime Minister. In that vein, more press attention to growing parties (the Greens) and less to the decaying ones would be appreciated.
  16. Maya D from T.Dot, Canada writes: I must say, an excellent article of Michael Ignatieff's truly amazing life journey! What a complex multi dimensional man. A partician intellectual, an artist writer, an academic, a journalist and now a politicial visionary continually re-inventing himself. Always entering with total passion into the heart of the matter and dealing with the accolaides and pitfalls that come with living in the apex of life's experiences. What an inspirationional human being, isn't he! Ignatieff is brilliant and in personal interactions he *listens* in very interested in the conversation and has a heart and isn't afraid to show it, this I say having met him a few times. I was happy to read he has healed the relationship with his brother Andrew, who himself sounds like an extraordinary man, just google him to find out. Hopefully the relationships with his children will heal over time as well. Good relationships with our children are after all of fundamental and primary importance. For us, and our country no doubt Ignatieff will be extraordinary in any political capacity. We are so fortunate! D.
  17. Kirov Keokuk from Canada writes: My goodness Mr. Valpy, Mr. Ignatieff has certainly cast his spell on you. It seems the charismatic wandering monk for interventionism has captured Toronto’s elite with his icy stare. Perhaps one has to be in the room with him to feel the magic because he leaves me cold. Over the years I’ve seen him use the rhetorical “we”, as in “we must end this” or “we must transform that” in British, American and Canadian contexts. The “we” he refers to are not actual Britons, Americans or Canadians, but rather “forces of change in the world”. If he were Prime Minister of Canada, we would be used as a source of money and soldiers for one adventure after another. No, the Rasputin of Rosedale has failed to capture my soul.
  18. Dennis Adair from Dundalk, Ontario, Canada writes: There is likely no writer who does not use his friends and family in strange, wonderful and sometimes shameless ways. Those with brilliant complex minds usually lead complicated lives with each experience creating the environment for the next. We may seemingly walk away from one endeavor to seek a new beginning but the experiences and the lessons are never lost. As I read this article by Michael Valpy, I was reminded of a line delivered by Harvard Math Professor and satirist, Tom Lehrer, to paraphrase - 'It makes you realize how little you have accomplished - when Mozart was my age he had been dead for 10 years.' Janet Rosenstock Adair
  19. Terry O' Shaughnessy from Bring Cash (BC), Canada writes: So Ingatieff is another messiah coming down off the mountain to save the Liberals in their Sodom & Gomorrah of corruption, and failed policies. Good luck! Moses would have stayed on the mountain if he knew he was returning to that lot!
  20. Terry Quinn from Oakville Ontario, Canada writes: Very well written article as one could imagine that Michael would choose a bright writer to be interviewed by. I'm voting for him in the race and will vote for him to oust Harper and his exclusionary politics.
  21. Bill Thompson from Calgary, Canada writes: A very well written and timely piece. It certainly gave me more insight into the man but it leaves me to question how he is going to fit with the Liberal party as it is presently constituted let alone lead it through the tough times ahead. What I get from this is that he is a Canadian elitist, upper class all the way, accomplished, and highly intelligent. With no disrespect intended, this is not what the rank and file of the Liberals are. In fact the “classiness,” “intellectualism,” and “elitism” are exactly what the Liberals accuse the Conservatives of being, oppose vigorously, and yet they are considering having just such a man lead their party. Under Mr. Ignatieff’s leadership, I think there may be civil war in the party with some major elements finding they would be shut out completely. The NDP would probably benefit. I wonder if he would consider a call-up from PM Harper?
  22. Sondra Stevens from Toronto, Canada writes: Wow, what can i say? This article is pretty impressive and well-written. Kudos to the author. On Mr Ignatieff, there is no doubt that he is an intellectual, obviously well travelled and aware. He might be a little out of touch with what most Canadians are about as per his much toutly expressed AWOL from the country but on the other hand it could be a plus....you know fresh ideas and all. I am a bit worried about his background though, it is not his fault that he grew up with a silver spoon in his mouth but in so many ways it could prove to be a drawback. If he wants to win, he needs to find a way to connect with the masses and wearing well-cut European suits all the time is not the way to go.
  23. Michael Clarke from Canada writes: Ignatieff is full of the Anglo-American exceptionalism that allows the Empire's state terrorism to flourish. His lack of human compassion was plain to see when he was defending the destruction of Lebanon by Israel, similar to his approach to Iraq and the GWOT. I was always infuriated when he was presented as a human rights expert. He is an elitist of the worst type - a jackal who worships power. He is also a great danger for Canada and will bring the Liberal party even more to the right if he becomes leader. We will have a one party government ruled by the Coniberals to match the one party state to the south ruled by the Republicrats. This guy is truly regressive.
  24. mike sharp from Victoria, writes: Ignatieff spent a long time living with the Kurds in Northern Iraq. His first hand experience with those people and the brutality they suffered under Saddam were the impetus for his supporting the liberation of Iraq. To those of you who bleat that Iraq is about American Imperialism, how then do you describe in context with a people who have suffered genocide at the hands of Saddam. Do you therefore support Saddam and thence, genocide?
  25. ryan rankin from Canada writes: Magical.
  26. Benjamin Sharma from Toronto, ON, Canada writes: This article is terribly cruel -- but then, perhaps, so is Michael Ignatieff...
  27. Joe Jacobs from Toronto, Canada writes: My god that was a boring article. Who cares about the privileged life of Michael Ignatief? I guess he just figures that for someone of his pedigree going from Upper Canada College to Tinity College and then Harvard, the only logical next step would be to become prime minister of Canada. Michael Valpy should be ashamed of himself for diguising a kiss-ass fluff piece as investigative journalism. Ignatief oozes class privilege. I think Canadians have more common sense that to elect someone as leader who couldn't possibly understand them.
  28. James Rider from Vancouver, Canada writes: Mr Ingatieff support for the Iraq war disqualifies him as a potential leader of the Liberal party. The neo-con supremacists in the Bush adminstration argue that international relations are relations of power alone and that international law merely recognizes what power has ordained. These ideas are not consistent with past Liberal policy. Neither Lester Peason nor Pierre Elliot Trudeau would have edorsed such a position nor attributed to it any intellectual credibility. I believe, both would have argued that the United States can be a force for good in the world by the power of the very ideas on which the Republic was founded.
  29. Juan Fernandez Leon from Canada writes: Charm, yes. Ruthlessness, perhaps. Big ideas? Hahahahahahah!!!!
  30. dominic solntseff from Ancaster, Canada writes: There will be no end to the troubles of states, or of humanity itself, till philosophers become kings in this world, or till those we now call kings and rulers really and truly become philosophers, and political power and philosophy thus come into the same hands.....PLATO. He'll be the last one to fold when the Boys on the Hill are playing late-night 5-card for morals. I look forward to the 'Manifesto'. If it is strong on Environmental Issues - I will push any vote I can find his way, right to the end.
  31. salty sam from Victoria, Canada writes: What a foil for Bob Rae! Iggy's attempt to overcompensate for his own elitist predisposition is overshadowed by his pandering to Americans. He's also such a poor actor that his attempts to play politician come across as appalingly fake on TV. I do think he would have a good chance against Harper - who's doubly stiff, fake and politically centrist.
  32. Nova Scotian by the Ocean from Halifax, Canada writes: So are we to expect similar hatchet pieces on the other leadership candidates? Will the front page trumpet how 'ruthless' Bob Rae was in leaving behind his buddies on the left... and why he won't even shake Michael Ignatieff's hand now? Will we find out why Gerard Kennedy thinks he should lead the country when he could't even stick around university long enough to get a three year B.A.? Liberals had better hope their new leader is a little ruthless, because s/he'll need to be to defeat Harper...
  33. capra Marina from Huntsville, Canada writes: He's got more capacity for Foreign Policy than any of them, but how would he handle Canada on the inside? I can't let anyone off because of a pretty face and a good family tree for the invasion of Irak. Does he care about the future of the planet or will he continue to uphold the territoriality and the fighting gods of the past Piscean era? And, Dang! how Canadian is this guy anyway?
  34. Dave Medich from Windsor, Canada writes: I still don't know what to think of him. He might be smarter than the other candidates but does he have the ability to be everything to everyone under the 'big tent'? Is he good at the usual Liberal catch phrases of 'tolerance', 'Canadian values', 'human rights' blah.... blah...... blah....... And is he aware that as Liberal PM his only obligation is to special interest groups and not the Canadian people? He might be too naive to dither and lie to stay in power. We'll see. If he actually believes in something but power he is in big trouble as a Liberal.
  35. David Worsley from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada writes: #24 is onto something. Michael Ignatieff's support for the Iraq war, like most measured opinion, came with some caveats. In the end, yes he supported the invasion, but it's unfair to equate him with Bush across the board. I was against the invasion, but I read some of Ignatieff's op ed pieces and later his book, America Exceptionalism & Human Rights. His position is nuanced enough to make a statement like 'Bush neo-conservative in disguise' a bit disingenuous. I'm a New Democrat, but so far, I could like with this guy.
  36. lary waldman from Qualicum Beach, Canada writes: You know this is a huge piece of journalism for the Globe and Mail. I don't really get the point, however what I want to know from Mr. Iggy is where do you stand on Poverty, Minimum Wage, Universal Healthcare, Homelessness, Capital Punishment, and please don't refer me to the Liberals Blue or is it Red Book. I now know more about Iggy then I ever imagined I wanted to. Leaves less room in my brain for usefull information. Lary Waldman
  37. A ACE from Canada writes: HARPER on Iggy: 'I understand that not everyone is lucky enough to be born into a rich family, to attend private schools, or to live an international lifestyle. Instead, millions upon millions get up each morning and get ahead the Canadian way, by working hard, by saving a bit of money, by doing the best they can to make the right decisions for their families and themselves.' 'These people are our people.' As a proud Canadian, I will always be a proud Harper supporter!
  38. 20 20 from Canada writes: Will the G&M do the same kind of 67-minute interview and multi-column Saturday feature article by a senior writer for the other leadership contenders? I know nothing, for example, about Gerard Kennedy or Stephane Dion or Ken Dryden, but would appreciate reading about them too.
  39. Mr Fijne from Calgary, Canada writes: I said it from the start: the race is for the gullable and this is only a question to make Ignatieff 'popular' and the Globe is obliging as usual when it comes to Liberal manoeuvres... The ropes are so big...
  40. Brian Fraser from Winnipeg, Canada writes: The slathering love that the Globe and Mail seems to have for Ignatief is breathtaking. The comparison to PET and all that is supposedly 'good' about the liberal party is the same as well. Ignatief is just another ploy by the liberal establishment in this country to present an intellectual who cares little about anyones' ideas but his own, and will say anything to get into power, including lying (if we remember Trudeau's wage and price controls which he crucified Stanfield for, and his gas price hike that he crucified Clark for, and in both cases got re-elected). I may not always agree with Harper, but at least he doesn't sugarcoat what he is and meander when he has to lead to satisfy the masses. He stands for things, the liberal party never will. Their goal in life is to get re-elected at whatever cost. The Globe and Mail should try and examine things with some objectivity. Sometimes they are sorely lacking in that regard.
  41. Sandi G. from Canada writes: I thought this article was a wonderful look into the man. The comments by some resenting his privileged past are quite immature. He didn't choose his lot in life. He became famous by his own efforts - studying and writing. Ruthless and aloof? Anyone, yes anyone, who has succeeded in life has had to put their passion first. To be jealous that he has had an interesting life is childish. Sibling rivalry isn't new. Every family has it. Yes, Harper is supposedly writing a hockey book - just what we need, another hockey book. Who is more aloof and controlling than Stephen Harper? The only thing I am disappointed about the article is a clear picture of why he was for going to the war in Iraq - because he had seen what Hussein had done. Did he know Bush was lying about the weapons of mass destruction at the time the decision was made - no. No one did. Did he know that the Bush administration would botch it up to bad - no. Question - had Harper been anywhere before becoming prime minister? No. Harper had never seen and still hasn't seen the destruction and pain that people in these countries under rulers like Hussein. Harper doesn't listen. Ignatieff listens. Ignatieff admits mistakes and apologizes for them. Harper has never admitted to being wrong and has never, never apologized. Ignatieff may have been out of the country but his heart was in Canada. Harper never left Canada but he is enamoured by the U.S.
  42. Anthony B from Sydney, NS, Canada writes: Why do I have that same queasy feeling I had when Mulroney was running for leadership of the PCs? The words ‘slick,' ‘devious' and ‘ruthless' come to mind ....... again.
  43. Bruce Banner from Toronto, Canada writes: Maya D from T.Dot - I will interpret your post as sarcasm. AHhh what a great country where the priveledged elite groom our future political leaders from generation to generation. This article is not so much a hatchet job as it is a white-wash. Those who are really interested in putting Ignatieff's political beliefs into perspective should read Noam Chomsky's evaluation of his writings in 'Imperial Ambitions.' He is not so much a political realist as he is an apologist. If Harper is a US puppet I wonder how Iggy differs? As for his extensive credentials as an academic, the quote by Denis Smith, emeritus professor of political science at University of Western Ontario says it all: “His writings would be of no public significance, if he had continued his academic and literary career in Canada or abroad, but once he became a candidate for the Liberal leadership and a potential prime minister, what he has said about world affairs over two decades becomes relevant to members of the Liberal Party and to the Canadian electorate.” Good to see the Liberal party continues to attract opportunists like Ignatieff and Rae.
  44. Michael Jahonneson from Vancouver, Canada writes: Actually, I am curious how he intends to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. How can someone interviewing a candidate not ask the most pressing question of the day? Any candidate that does not answer that question satisfactorily will not get my vote. Unless the Liberals put forth a credible foreign policy that recognizes reality, I will vote Conservative.
  45. Scot Loucks from Pickering, writes: Boring elitist, probably the best the liberals have though. Looking foward to many years of conservative government. Well written article though. Kudo's to the authour.
  46. 20 20 from Canada writes: The article mentions Madonna, and one has to wonder whether Ignatieff's controversial and shocking announcements and re-inventions of self are not designed to propel him to greater fame, in the way Madonna used shock and re-invention as vehicles to success. If so, what might he controversially say or do as his next act, using the prime ministership as his platform, to launch himself up to the next level of controversial global fame? If Michael Ignatieff were PM, might he suddenly shock and betray everyone, as he did in 1984 on the miners and in 2003 on Iraq, by announcing support for folding Canada into the US? As #7 justifiably asked, where does he stand on this? Is he here for Canada, or is Canada here for him? Since I think there is at least an element of the latter, what would Michael Ignatieff do, using Canada, to try to get himself into the history books? That could be fine if it respects the will of his constituents and compatriots, but his past actions in this respect leave that in doubt.
  47. Political Junkie from Canada writes: Ah. le petit gar de Rosedale et Harvard!!!
  48. Jon Barry from Chicago, United States writes: Very beautiful article. From what I've read, Iggy looks different from the traditional boring unknown Canadian politician. I sympatize with those who don't think he's Canadian enough. I mean, his kids are British, his wives have been British, his only link to Canada is his ancestry - very near ancestry. What makes him uniquely Canadian? His trademark arrogance in just humping from London and Harvard and expecting a royal welcome from those 'lower intellectually-challenged Canadians' is obvious. He doesn't think Canada is good enough to raise his kids, to pick a wife, to have a career, to teach, but thinks Canada is perfect enough lead? Damn, he even wrote a book titled 'The RUSSIAN ALBUM,' not 'CANADIAN ALBUM, but RUSSIAN Album with a pathetic excuse about trying to sound 'exotic.' So being 'Canadian' isn't exotic? And take a look at almost all his novels, lots of fascination with Russia, but how much fascination does he have about Canada? If he loved Canada that much, and spent as much time describing Canada in romantic terms as he does Russia, wouldn't that at least contribute to Canada tourism $$$? I love him as a person, but I fear some of that British class system has rubbed off on him. That American East-Coast Ivy-League left-wing elitist smugness is all over him. Just my view. His candidacy should also raise alarm bells about immigrants are using Canada's generous immigration system as stepping stones to other countries, and their lack of interest in contributing to Canada. Immigrants that only take a notice of Canada when tehy want something from Canada, like fleeing war zones in Lebanon or wanting to be Prime Minister.
  49. A C from Canada writes: If Michael Ignatieff had been PM, would we be in Iraq as well? I think the answer is yes (as with Stephen Harper). Michael Ignatieff supports US interventionist policies that purport to fight oppression, while turning a blind eye to the real, underlying self-interested motives and to US interventionist policies that give rise to and/or support those very oppressive regimes (Saddam Hussein, the pre-Taliban, Israel's treatment of Palestinians). He may be a virtuoso with words, but his judgement has to be questioned.
  50. S Muhlberger from North Bay, Canada writes: I am impressed by the profundity of the comments here -- much better than the usual run of things. Anyone who supported the invasion of Iraq should step aside -- we don't need that kind of deluded leadership.
  51. Mark D from Vancouver, Canada writes: First, for clarity’s sake, let’s just call him Mr. Torture. After all, he’s gone out of his way to justify and apologize for America’s use of torture, and its absolute disregard for international law. Mr. Torture does not even bother himself to exhibit the kind of active contempt for Canada that so defines Stephen Harper, so little is his regard for this nation, so non-existent his respect. Mr. Torture barely bothered himself enough to haul himself out of his safe New England confines to rough it up here in the barbaric, should-be-American northern hinterland of Toronto, deigning only to take up residence when he was guaranteed a seat. Do we really think so little of ourselves, our families, our history, and our future as a soveriegn and independent nation that we would elect such a man to govern us?
  52. Neale Adams from Vancouver, writes: One does want to compare him to Trudeau - an intellectual who has decided to take a turn at politics. But Trudeau had some relevant ideas. He wanted a particular place for Quebec in Canada; a written constitution; a Supreme Court; repatriation of the Constitution; liberalizing a great deal of law, e.g., on divorce and homosexuality; a 'Just Society.' Whether we think Trudeau was a great PM, he did have ideas and he changed the course of the country. But what ideas does Ignatieff have? Valpy's article gives us little clue. To restore a Pearsonian foreign policy? (Which however could include pre-emptive wars, like Iraq.) A softer promotion of continentalism that Stephen Harper's? Where would this guy take Canada. All the reporting of the family history, the personal and career related angst, all those thousands of words in Volpe's profile (has there ever been a longer piece in the Globe?) give us precious little clue!
  53. Gravol Insomnia from Gatineau, Canada writes: 'His IQ is off the Richter scale.' That's weak. Last week. The Richter scale is subjected to a saturation effect around 8.5, and the largest recorded earthquake was only 9.5. Besides, the preferred measurement now is the Moment Magnitude Scale. Soon you'll be telling me that there are nine planets.
  54. Michelle L from Toronto, Canada writes: Very interesting article. I'd advise Michael Valpy to read the book 'Third Culture Kids[children who have lived in several different countries by virtue of their parents' jobs],' by Pollock and Van Reken. It will give him a sure insight into the dimensions of Ignatieff's psyche explored in this piece.
  55. Liz Jackson from Canada writes: Memo to Michael: Yo not the man, too Right and too much common sense. A poor fit with your chosen Party. Michael Ignatieff is not catching on. His main problem is his coming out in support of Iraq war and the fact he spent many years in the US. These factors are against the grain of the Left. Whoever is the winner in this contest will need some muscle to get the Party out of the quagmire.
  56. A B from Canada, Canada writes: I'm looking forward to hearing from the other Liberal leadership candidates as to their lasting impressions from THEIR sexual initiations. I wonder what Mr. Ignatieff's personal agenda for Canada is? What does this guy want with a country? What more does he have to prove ... to himself, to his father? To just enter a country and decide you're going to run it ... according to what? Michael Ignatieff's view of the world? Who the hell is Michael Ignatieff? Very, very strange. Very, very scary.
  57. globe Reader from Vancouver, Canada writes: Troubling as I find this article, I would take this man as our Prime Minister over Harper or Layton any day of the week (and twice on Sundays). In the context of examining who would make the best leader of the Liberal Party, the key question regarding Mr. Ignatieff remains is he a man who has courageously followed his evolving principles or is he is a man of convenient principles? Today's column gave me no measure of certainty either way.
  58. Marco Polo from Waterloo, Canada writes: I too am an academic, so have some respect for people who think and write for a living. What disturbs me about Ignatieff, though, is that he lives in his world of ideas and is disconnected from the warp and woof of this country, from coast to coast to coast. Like Bush, who knew nothing about the world outside America before becoming President and failed miserably when faced with problems outside his own country, I suspect that Ignatieff, were he to become Prime Minister, would conversely fail as miserably when called upon to dig into the Canadian soul in order to represent it to the rest of us. Just as Bush doesn't understand the rest of the world, Ignatieff doesn't understand Canada.
  59. Jack Schmidt from Canada writes: I have been a Liberal supporter for most of my life however, Ignatieff will never get my vote. Hell, anyone can tell this guy's as phoney as an American three dollar bill. I can't help but laugh seeing Iggys' picture in this feature gazing so pompously into his future...the toilet. A Freudian slip?
  60. Matt Campbell from Canada writes: An intensely private look at a man who is deeply committed to his morals. We know he's not perfect. This article has clearly painted just how. But one thing stands out in my mind. I know is that I can find just as many faults in myself - as Valpy has found (along with his strengths) in Michael Ignatieff. While I do have these faults, what I don’t have is Michael's tremendous, tremendous accomplishments to compensate for me. Does that make me a dead weight? Am I unworthy of the citizenship I hold in this dominion? The answer is clear. Of course if we're looking for perfection, we're not going to find it. Through Valpy's piece, I feel closer to Ignatieff. Not only do I whole-heartedly support a man of his conviction to lead our country, but I believe that those who read this piece without bias, and with honesty - those who meet the man who wants to lead the liberal party into the 21st century, will too soon strongly believe that he is the man to lead this country. Bravo.
  61. L. Bruce Pierce from Toronto, writes: It seems that the cultural elite truly believe they have the Divine Right to leadership over the shapeless masses. Just because one has a High Elevation IQ, does not guarantee great and good leadership. There must be other human qualities, seemingly missing in our subject of the moment. Fortunately for Michael Ignatieff he has the talents to land other employment opportunities.
  62. Michael Crowell from Halifax, Canada writes: Harper will crush him in the 1st debate. A Liberal is a Liberal is a Liberal. Nothing good ever came from that bunch.
  63. Marvin Hounsell from Surrey, B.C, Canada writes: Canada had one intellectual Prime Minster who had no problem giving those of lesser intelligence the middle finger and telling those who disagreed with him to 'fuddleduddle ' off. One intellectual pri** for Prime Minster was enough, we don't need another. Bring back Paul Martin as leader. Marvin Hounsell
  64. john stolarski from canmore, Canada writes: Politics is not an intellectual exercise. We need a Prime Minister who has spent most of his working years in Canada and not being annoited to the Liberal Leadership. It seems elites never work their way to the top, we do not need a Prime Minister, who wants a short cut to the job. Interesting man but what really qualifies him for Prime Minister?
  65. s r from Palo Alto, CA, United States writes: I wish I could read faster. This Iggy could have probably read it in 10 minutes. Me I took 40 minutes. I don't grudge him his intelligence. But, there is something dark and cold about this fellow. Its in all of us, yet the trait has become exaggerated in this fellow. Could he be a good leader? If before 9/11 he was talking about WMDs in Iraq, then I am certain he knew that something big was going to go down. How couldn't he have known being at Harvard?. Surely he must have read the papers coming out of the ultra-conservative think-tank 'Project for the New American Century (PNAC) ' on 'Rebuilding America's Defenses' where pre-2001 the authors write that only a catalyzing event like a 'new pearl harbor' would ignite the change necessary for a new world order. The end goal is a peaceful one for Iggy. The means whether it be the 9/11 fabrications, WMDs in Iraq, devastation in Lebanon and Gaza are to be endured.
  66. M Phillips from Canada writes: Sounds like he has the stuff to make unpopular but necessary decisions. Obviously intellectually gifted but glad he wasn't my brother. Way off in supporting Iraq war but at the time he made those statements 70% of NA's were leaning towards a conflict based solution to address the 'problem'. Not all of this 70% were made up of dumb people so he had good company. At the end of the day truly successful leaders demonstrate competencies in several key areas. I am not sure Ig has command over all of these and will evaluate this closely before deciding whether to support or not support his candidacy.
  67. Caitlin Townsend from Peterborough, ON, Canada writes: What is better - a prime minister that hasn't been in the country for the past few years while working at top political institutions around the world, or a prime minister that had yet to leave the continent before he was elected PM?? (Hint - the last guy's name starts with an H and ends with an R). I think the choice is clear. Go Ignatieff Go!
  68. Franklin Carter from Etobicoke, Canada writes: Big Ig is smart and ambitious, but he really isn't one of us. He's been away from Canada far too long. Gilles Duceppe is more of a Canadian than Ignatieff! But the monied people and the intellectuals in Toronto will fawn over him. They'll treat Ignatieff as if he were a new Pierre Trudeau.
  69. Michael H from Edmonton, Canada writes: Bill Thompson, I don't think you will find too many people that accuse the CPC of intellectualism. Anti-intellectualism maybe. Harper may be intelligent but he is hardly an intellectual. As for Mr. Ignatieff, being ruthlessly competitive is part of the requirements for rising to the elite levels of academia.
  70. George Brown from Burnaby, Canada writes: A Gnostic paraclete, quite possibly worse than Trudeau the terrible (of whom a puzzled Brian Mulroney asked PC Newman: `a 70-year old man has a child out of wedlock and everyone [in Canada] thinks it's ok??'), or even Bobby Rae. How about now that Michael is finally back in Canada, the rest of us say we all leave? How is it that the Liberals can be so stupid not to get Ken Dryden up and runing near the lead - give the guy some lessons in public speaking, whatever it takes. We should vote for, as our numero uno representative of the Canadian people, a guy who hasn't spent his adult life in this country , let alone in the real world (being in communication with the many fantasy ideologies of the liberal intelligentsia) before we elect a hockey hero? How self-hating are we, or how much does the party that champions this guy hate us? How much do we deserve to be laughed at by the rest of the world? It should be deafening. Earth to Liberal Party: anyone at home here? We're not a colony anymore, however much Shawinigan and Power Corp. sometimes made it seem that way. I can only speak more despairingly of Rae Days Rae and that Hedy Christian lover! And then there's incoherent Dion and high as a kite Kennedy. Brison's ok though - he actually thinks Israel has a right to defend itself! But it's not enough. I hope all Canadians remember exactly how hopeless the Liberal party is and send it to purgatory for a looong time! But then you have to know enough to know there's something very wrong with Trudeau worship and the Gnostic Magi in the Liberal party are betting most of you don't: grow up dammit and stop taking these insults to your nationhood.
  71. Spencer Partington from Sarnia, Canada writes: Here's hoping that Iggy is successful in his bid to become Liberal leader. I think that most Canadians will see this man for the opportunistic, elitist plutocrat that he is and send him a message on polling day. I cannot see how someone who has spent so much time away from the country he wants to lead, will begin to relate to ordinary Canadians and know what is best for them. He reminds me of the same sort of elitist academics (like Bouchard and Parizeau) who led the Parti Quebecois and the province of Quebec to fiscal disaster. But at least Bouchard had charisma and could connect with all levels of Quebec society. Comparisons of Iggy to Trudeau may not be valid, but Trudeau is the last member of the academic elite to run this country and I still have about 25% of my tax dollars trying to pay off his bills. No thanks
  72. Daniel Sturgis from Rabat, Morocco writes: Sounds like Iggy's the kind of guy who's your best friend one minute, and stepping on your face to get another rung up the ladder the next. Not to mention he's lived out of Canada for most of the last thirty years. Even if I could get over these two facts, the fact that he supported a pre-emptive war in Iraq, I can't get over. 70% of North Americans may have supported this war, but not Canadians. Someone privvy to the amount of information and knowledge as Iggy, should, in my opinion, have been able to forsee the potential catastrophic ramifications of a botched, and entirely unneccessary war. Now he sweeps in and bids to become our next Prime Minister? To me, even Bob Rae, with his fiscally embarassing premiership behind him, is still preferrable to this highly intellectual, yet morally very questionable man. I'm in the camp to throw my weight behind any candidate but the two front runners. Dion or Dryden actually stand a chance to LEAD the Liberals to victory. Would we neck deep in doodoo if Iggy had been the prime minister five years ago? What if he wins? Is Iran next? Is there anyone else out there who thinks there is a conservative conspiracy to finance the most questionable candidate's bids so Harper can be guaranteed a majority in the next election. Perhaps it's just me. If I was a Conservative leader, I'd be twisting arms to help finance these two. It's simple - any other candidate in the liberal leadership, perhaps save Ashley Mac, actually stands a chance to win an upcoming election.
  73. brm 2000 from hogtown, Canada writes: I think comment 58 clearly sums up Big Ig. He does not really know Canada well, and maybe doesn't want to as. I get the idea from this excellent article that if I asked Ig a question he would turn to me while steepling his hands and stare at some fixed point past me and say perhaps...perhaps... and then blurt out something completely out of left field. He will really have to bone up on Canada if he wants to be a successful leader, but the conversion may kill him psychically in the end!
  74. Charles Hoppe from Weymouth, Nova Scotia., Canada writes: It appears as if the Globe and Mail is about to endorse Professor Doctor Ignatieff as their favourite candidate for the Leadership of the LPC. Professor Doctor Ignatieff seems to enjoy an inordinate amount of 'ink' compared to the other candidates. Now if the Globe was as forward looking and as fair as they probably think they are they would give this same amount of attention to - for instance - Martha Hall Findley and the prospect of the first woman as Leader of the LPC.
  75. Z R from Canada writes: Maya D from T.Dot, Canada - your note about how fortunate 'we' are to have this man in our country might be more about your own potential fortune as a young Liberal should he prevail. Your note is written as a total sycophant, a person who tries to please someone in order to gain a personal advantage. This sychophantic culture your comment is an example of is indicative of why the Liberal Party was recently so vehemently rejected and not elected. If you want someone who won't be able to reward you for being such a sycophant because he didn't attend U.C.C. and doesn't think being whipped by bamboo is an 'honor' and also someone who doesn't support the needless macho war in Iraq, then give Jack Layton and the NDP a try!
  76. Remember the Red Book from Toronto, Canada writes: Volpy's artical on Michael Ignatieff fails to mention that Michael will force Canadians to 'get real' and learn to recognize propaganda for what it is-a pack of destructive lies such as the following------- U.S Propaganda: terrorists hate us because of our freedom------ Hezbollah Propaganda: Israel has statred every war in the past 2 000 years------- Canadian Propaganda: we are a collection of innocents happily tip toeing through the tulips, gathering honey, singing Give Peace a Chance while talking with ferries.------ Some people love propaganda because it sounds so good. Remember Jean Chretians RED Book? It was a pack of lies - no more GST and he would tear up the free trade agreement. We know the rest.
  77. Brian Andrew from Calgary., Canada writes: What a long article!!! WOW for those of you who read it all good for you! I tried to but got bored and if I did wonder what the average guy in Canada would read it! I find it truly amazing that we have a man running for the leadership of the Liberals and he has been an American most of his life wonder how some of you liberal supporters are going to explain that? He is very impersonal and yes he is very bright man but I don't think Canada is going to vote for someone who looks down from his nose at them and tells them that I am a very smart man and as a result you should vote for me! I don't think the Globe never did and in depth article on Martin and I know they have not on Harper seems to me we have a bit of biased journalism going on here!
  78. michael d from Canada writes: Mr. Ignatieff is a rare and gifted political candidate--possessed of intellect, experience, and consciousness that could grant Canada a voice and presence--nationally and internationally--that it has lacked for decades. In comparison, Mr. Harper looks like an awkward, immature, ideologically scripted automaton (as would quickly become apparent, I suspect, in any true debate). No surprise, then, that so many mud-slinging right-wingers posting here are positively fuming at Mr. Ignatieff's arrival on the national scene. Given Ignatieff's (not 'Iggy's') stature, integrity, and oratorical skills, he clearly stands poised to put a quick end to Mr. Harper's (not 'Harpy's') thankfully brief moment of power. I support Mr. Ignatieff wholeheartedly (even with the few mortal childhood 'character flaws' Mr. Valpy has helpfully uncovered; may we see Mr. Harper's?), and encourage other progressives, of all parties and political persuasions, to do so as well. His candidacy is an historic opportunity for positive change in Canada--nothing less.
  79. Yvonne Wackernagel from Woodville.Ontario, Canada writes: This article was well researched but, when I read it, the description of this man which came to me AGAIN was Ruthless, Lacking Compassion, Shifty, Always Looking for the next opportunity to move up, AND, if he can vote for the war in Iraq and support our simpleton Prime Minister to increase the deployment in Afghanistan, then he is a bigger simpleton. Who wants this man for our next Prime Minister? Count me out!
  80. Rejean Beaulieu from Vancouver, Canada writes: For a man with so many credentials, I am still looking for 'content'. Wasn't George Grant big on canadian 'content'?
  81. C Chen from Toronto, Canada writes: #7, just hope you don't regret your comment. I thought Bob Rae was potentially a good leader for Ontario only to find we are still paying for his mistakes with our healthcare system here. I still cringe at the words : Rae days
  82. True Blue from Canada writes: Without the backing of the Chretien/Desmarais Powercorp group he just doesn't stand a chance. Look for Bob Rae to be crowned the leader of the Liberal Party. The Chretien group have many markers on people that will be called in when the time is ready. Ignatieff's credentials are impressive but unfortunately he believes he's to big for anything else but the leadership. If he doesn't get it, he's off again. Bye bye Canada!
  83. dom parri from sault ste. marie, Canada writes: What an enigma! A man of conscience, aloofness and very decisive. A man who has vision and creativity. A multi complex visionary that is open and eager to please his country men. A gambler who is willing to take the fall, be ruthless when necessary( survival of the fittest )and a man of a normal background of sibling rivalry and parental acknowledgement and acceptance. All are traits of a true politician, a person who is willing to open their lives to the public, good and bad. Who are we to be the judge or throw the first stone! Give him the chance to excite the poltical realm of the next generation, our future, our present! We are Canadian!
  84. Robert Lynn from Soviet Canuckistan, Canada writes: What we don't need is another 'parlour red' to build on the Trudeau Legacy. No more central planners please.
  85. holly cow from vancouver, Canada writes: Strahl, Harper, Day, Stronach, Hedy, Volpe, Fortier, Dosanjh.... need I continue? And you guys think Iggy's got problems??? It is YOU who have the problems if you are satisfied with the load of ABSOLUTE RUBBISH we have in Ottawa these days. Do you remember what some of the last words from Ed Broadbent were? The House of Commons is FULL of idiots today. If you don't think the level of debate and discourse between Broadbent Trudeau and Clark was MILES beyond what we are getting today, well, then you are getting what you deserve, which is junk. Today what we have in the HOC is barely beyond the sandbox or the schoolyard. They embarrass most of us regularily. Some poster up above (I can't be bothered to find his # again) actually thinks Dryden would be a better PM than Ignatieff BECAUSE he played hockey. I don't think he was kidding. I nearly barfed.
  86. S G from Montreal, Canada writes: Here's the thing. Ignatieff is intelligent, almost painfully thoughtful and analytical about issues, and determined. He's got what the rest of us analytical folks don't often have: connections, a network, a core group of powerful believers. That's what separates Brigham Young Mormons from David Koresh Branch Davidians, and what makes Ignatieff a front-runner for the Liberal leadership. He has been involved in elected politics for 8 MONTHS as of this weekend. But look at the attention he's getting. Some may say it's totally unfair, and it's different in many substantive ways, but I'll argue that Ignatieff is the Canadian version of John Kerry. Remember him from the last US Presidential election? He was extremely smart, uncharismatic, able to move party faithful to accept him as a leader, and totally inadequate as a Presidential candidate. While Kerry served his public life in politics, he, like 'Iggy' had laid out his opinions for consumption for 30 years, and he had a similar history in life (2nd wife, a ruthless streak, a war hero (i.e., a hawk) who had conflicting opinions about particular military tactics). Result? Bush stomped him. Sure, Canada is a different country, with a different tack. Still: likeliest result if Iggy wins the Liberal leadership? Another Harper minority. Iggy leading the Loyal Opposition? Wow...now THAT would be a sight to see. It's hard to imagine, and it might be quite ugly. Liberals ought to keep that possibility in mind -- they are running to Iggy as if they're anointing the next PM. Not so fast! Think about how he would do in opposition. Let's see how this unfolds. My money is on the NEXT Liberal leadership race, when they have a better chance to form a government again: just keep your eye on a certain former Conservative, equally ruthless in some ways, with ambition who stubbornly won't go away...SHE is lurking, practicing French, staying focused...in the meantime, the Greens are going to start winning some seats.
  87. Christian Baron from Toronto, Canada writes: Ignatieff would make a fine minister of foreign affairs in the current CPC government. I think that is where he will go once he looses the Liberal leadership bid and the PM finally boots that joke Peter MacKay from the job.
  88. Richard Hawrelak from Sarnia, Canada writes: Thx Michael for the excellent article on Big Ig, or 'Slick' (ref 42 - The words ‘slick,' ‘devious' and ‘ruthless' come to mind ....... again. ). You, and many of the posters here, have helped me make my mind up on 'Slick' and the 'nerdy' Bob R., for that matter. The Liberals (past sins) have not been in the wilderness long enough to regain my vote.
  89. Matthew Peterson from Toronto, Canada writes: PERFECT! What a guy! Vote him in! When did we start expecting our politicians to be ethical, decent human beings?
  90. john booth from Toronto, Canada writes: Interesting comment about Madonna in the piece since Mr. Ignatieff is nothing more than her political equivalent. Both are chameleons who thrive on re-inventing themselves for self-aggrandizement. Both are very talented 'artists' but the PM's office is not the place for Iggy's next gig.
  91. Benjamin Sharma from Toronto, ON, Canada writes: It's interesting to see how different people react to this piece. I read it and thought, 'What a scumbag!' My father read it and thought, 'This man will make a great prime minister,' though he will still support Harper in the next election (Liberals need at least one more term in the wilderness, he thinks). I see that the commenters above are equally divided...
  92. hendrik reems from Canada writes: your worst one sided focus section ever. i did not read any of the ignatieff story, and if we are to get the same coverage on all the other Liberal leadership candidates ill have to cancel my subscription. its not hard to see who you think the next pm of canada shoulo be.
  93. True Blue from Canada writes: Hopefully the G&M will allow Hedy Fry a paragraph to list her credentials and her vision for Canada.
  94. Barbara J. Stewart from Vancouver, BC, Canada writes: Ignatieff is the kind of guy you'd like to have a glass of Pouilly Fuisse with. But try to imagine this philosopher-king in charge of our foreign policy. I'm a long time admirer of Mr.Ignatieff (and anyone Samantha Powers supports is worthy of great respect). But on Iraq, he's wrong. And witnessing his presentation during a recent leadership debate in BC, some of us turned to each other and said 'what planet is HE on?' While I wasn't aware of any 'dropped g's', his sense of disconnect from the art of politics was particularly obvious. There may be logic in his positions - certainly underlying philosophic principles - but there is no heart. Just a big head, good for television.
  95. Giant Ogre from St. Louis MO, United States writes: What about Bob?
  96. Sun Burned from Canada writes: I would vote for Bob Rae over this ignateif guy anyday, who is this guy anyway?, where did he come from ? Oh yes, The USA for the past several decades. We dont need you, go home.
  97. Milburn McLean from Toronto, Canada writes: We all leave friends as we move on. What's the big deal? That's life, you have to move on. Wow a guy with brains! He just might get me back in the Liberal Party.
  98. Bill Smith from The wilds of Canada, Canada writes: Is Michael Ignatieff the Liberal Party's answer to Brian Mulroney?
  99. Doug Dyson from Toronto, Canada writes: If Michael Ignatieff runs against Steve Harper, people would have a hard time figuring out who is who except that Steve has a much larger waistline. (more time at the trough).
  100. Steven Koning from Bloomfield Ontario, Canada writes: Zag-Zignatieff is the establishment candidate touted by the establishment newspaper who have sent Valpy, himself a UTS boy, to interview another UTS boy. It's just too obvious for words. Naturally you can find the lady gushers on these pages, so impressed by his intellect, his power, his tallness, his virility. Yuck, it gives women a bad name to read that slobbery drivel. All these qualities mean nothing if not put to the aim of improving those parts of the lives of Canadians the feds are responsible for first, and the lives of our friends in the world second and everyone else third. They also mean nothing if this candidate does not commit to stay out of areas of provincial jurisdiction, something the chattering classes and the neo-lefties have a hard time understanding. He deserves credit for throwing his oversize hat in the ring. The universe will unfold as it should. My money is on Dion.
  101. Andrea Dillon from Montréal, Canada writes: #67 - Absolutely, Caitlin. That one might confuse Harper's lowest common denominator approach to politics as anything other than an attempt to garner that prized, free-wheeling majority coveted by the CPC is disheartening. While he continues to spin himself as the folksy representative of Ordinary Canadians, we become mired in the day-to-day. We forget that amid the 9-to-5, we were once inspired by politicians, we once allowed ourselves to dream of something beyond a tax cut or a double-double. Michael Ignatieff is that sort of politician - it's time that we abandoned the national inferiority complex and chose a leader who gives us all something to aspire toward.
  102. Jack Ryan from Toronto/Calgary, Canada writes: If you want to know what Michael Ignatieff will do with our country, read this week's MacLean's. I spoke to Michael today at a Barbeque in his riding and he is far from condescending. He is willing to engage anyone in conversation about whatever topic they want. He also shook hands with my 3 year old son (made for a cute picture!) and spoke to him for quite a while. Michael Ignatieff has what it takes to unite us; not divide us, as current and past Prime Ministers have done. As for the poster that thinks Harper can best Ignatieff in a debate... LOL!
  103. Marko Trivun from toronto, Canada writes: I have read most of the comments posted here, particularly the not-so-favorable ones. I will reserve judgment on the motivations behind these attacks but from the absurdity and cruely of your comments it is clear. But as an ardent supporter of Michael, I am not in the least bit discouraged by some of the harsh words posted here. The reason is simple, I am yet to read a criticism that's not ad hominem argument and that is based on something substantial. Period. It's either spin, lies or just plain cruelty. I look forward to some intelligent and substantial comments tommorow during question period but from the sampling here my hopes are not high.
  104. Jack Ryan from Toronto/Calgary, Canada writes: #37: If your self-implied, 'regular guy' is so anti-elitist, then why was he the VP, and then the President of the most elitist lobby group in the county, the 'National Citizens Coalition'? A 'coalition' of ultra right-wingers founded by an insurance millionaire/billionaire in order to fight things such as universal health care? A group that refuses to publish the names of its members, its donar lists, or its financial statements because it purposefully breaks 3rd party spending rules during elections. A group that disseminates propaganda in the form of billboards, and attack-ad campaigns. Oh yes, Harper is so the 'everyman'. LOL!
  105. Mr Fijne from Calgary, Canada writes: Ignatieff is a proponent of the Rights revolution where some will