Skip navigation

 Login or Register | Member Centre

Earlier discussion

Garth Turner on his expulsion from the Tory caucus

Globe and Mail Update

Latest comment posted at 1:32 PM EST 20/10/06

Maverick ex-Tory MP took your questions ...Read the full article

This conversation is closed

  1. Purcell MacDonald from Nova Scotia, Canada writes: Hey Garth, always enjoyed your business show. I was surprised when you ran politically again because it seemed like step backward. Whatever happened to being fiscally conservative and socially moderate? What the heck does gay marriage and the clergy that perform it have to do with fiscal responsibility? Being a Progressive Conservative all my life - Garth, won't you join me in the corner with the rest of the Red Tories? Somewhere, Joe Clark is smiling and saying 'I told you so' to nobody in particular.
  2. Mr Fijne from Calgary, Canada writes: How quickly the Globe and mail extended this invitation? Perhaps the Tories have figured out this guy was a Gliberal mole and checked him out...
  3. Queen Street from Switzerland writes: Good evening Mr. Turner: Thank you for making yourself available to all Canadians. I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to continue being a conservative as you've been till now. You have all the right to dissent and be certain that the majority of Canadians will support your voice within the party. Canadians will support you with their vote. You are a Conservative with capital letters all the way. Please note, I'm a Liberal for conviction and militancy and I can admire members of other parties who respond to peoples demands because you are accountable to Canadian people and not to the PM or the party caucus.
  4. tony vuccino from Richmond Hill, Canada writes: I am not surprised that the big blue machine has turfed Garth Turner. They do not like to be criticized !!!!THEY ARE ALWAYS RIGHT!!!! Their message ....'my way or the high way'!!!! ON THE OTHER HAND....What do the Conservatives know about Democracy? Anyway!!!! Case closed!!!! I hope everyone of us learn from this event!!!!
  5. otmar zambo from Canada writes: Mr. Turner you seem to have too many good Qualities and you seem to wear your thoughts on your sleeve for the party which I supported during the last election because they were talking about an open and transparent government! it looks though that only king harper is deciding what can be said and what can not be said! then he uses his stoodge Jaffer to let us know that you were excluded from kaukus! and stupid me thought during the elections Mr Jaffers face was attached to mr Harpers shoulder. whenever we saw harper on TV there always was Jaffers head sticking out of one of Harpers shoulder so that I was wondering if they were samese twins for a while. Mr. Garth Turner! unfortunately you are not in my riding, but I wish you were!
  6. Stude Ham from Outremont, Canada writes: good work! the harper regime is the single most obnoxious government ever to choke our country. and that *new government* (ie harper dictatorship) was made even less respectable by the resurrection of the Harris rejects flakerty, boord, and clumsment, the absorption of the unprincipled guy from bc, and the parachuting of that quebec crony into the ministry of gagliano. it's hard to imagine how any decent politician could have survived in that sewer. and i'm very happy to see that you were able to find your way out. good luck ... and i hope that this incident contributes to the early demise of this calgary based dictatorship.
  7. Jack Ryan from VictoriaToronto, Canada writes: Comment - Garth Turner may believe he is lots of things, but what he chiefly is adept at is using the media to promote Garth Turner. I recall reading his financial columns in the late 1990's advocating Canadians should reduce their real estate holdings and increase their exposure to the stock market and the booming tech sector. Wrong, wrong and wrong. I've been successful doing the opposite. When Garth was passed over for a cabinet post he was sure he had coming to him, his disappointment and lack of team focus led him to create his blog and take pot shots at his party and leader. And of course to promote Garth Turner, formerly establishment guy, now self-appointed maverick MP. The only other things Garth is noted for other than poor judgement is an excellent ability to self-promote and very efficiently use modern media. Hats off to Garth for understanding how to manipulate the media better than other MP's from any party. Too bad he couldn't see past his own inflated ego to make a positive contribution.
  8. Scot Affleck from Prince George, Canada writes: Hang in there, Garth. Like the Jehovahs Witnesses say, 'I'm not out of step, the rest of the army is. Right?
  9. Terence Miranda from Victoria, Canada writes: Garth is obviously not a team player. In my opinion, the Conservatives are doing an excellent job of running the country. I think Garth should go and join Belinda and the Liberals.
  10. James Markis from Bolton, writes: I have always enjoyed reading Garth. Informative, honest, and to the point. Almost Prime Minister and a well respected opinion is an understatement. I hope he not only weathers this mishap well but triumphs in it. Transparency is increasingly important in having Canada vote against its conscience. Turner And Dryden might make a dream team for those of us who did so I hope the Liberals are paying attention. =) God bless ya Garth, call a spade a spade and take no prisoners, this may the conservatives first boo boo.
  11. Gerry Pankhurst from westport, Canada writes: I saw the press conference and all it did for me was confirm what I have thought all along. In my book you are a self-agrandizing opportunist that probably knows how to spell the word loyalty but has no notion of what it means. How anyone could embrace the double standard of meeting with colleagues in confidence and then rush to publish what was said and pretend not to know where the problem lies is beyond me. In my book you have destroyed any trust anyone may have had in you and you richly deserve the consequences. Your blog may have some continuing interest to the lefties of this country but even they will back off as it deservedly goes down the toilet.
  12. Susan Frieeman from Canada writes: Mr. Turner, I am old enough to remember, because I was there, your run for party leader. Your claim to fame was some obscure tax reform of little or no value then and less today. Seems to me you were in caucus due to your 'long years of servitude' and all you get it 'older and around' as time passes. If you don't have anything to add amongst your peers during caucus meetings then you should willingly step aside. If your constituents wanted a different outcome of the election they would have voted that way. Behave!
  13. A Guy from rural Ontario, Canada writes: If I wanted an MP to speak their mind I would vote for an independent. However, I have always (so far) voted for the candidate of a political party because I agree with the policies of the party. If my candidate wins, I want him/her to follow party policy because that is why I voted for them. It's really quite simple. If a candidate runs for a political party they must uphold the policies of that party. If they don't, they are being dishonest with the voters. Also, some people think MPs should be able to speak their minds. Fine, but will they be saying things I agree with? Will they say things you agree with? Yes, MPs should represent their constituents, but which constituents? Not everyone agrees on all issues. So who does the MP represent? It's for these reasons that I vote for a party whose policies I endorse. And I would expect my MP, if elected for that party, to uphold those policies.
  14. john clair from Canada writes: Loyalty is a wonderful thing whether it's a friend or you're spouse YOU should try it some time.
  15. Martha Cassidy from Yarmouth, NS, Canada writes: It is about time Canadians were represented by politicians who use their own brains to determine what the citizens have a right to know. I believe that when a person runs under a political party's banner, they are subscribing to the philosophy of that political party NOT, necessarily, to the policies and procedures of the Leader and /or her/his inner circle of advisors. If more MP's were like Chuck Cadman and Garth Turner, the more honourable and fair our country would appear to onlookers. Naive and idealistic I might be, but so are the thousands of future voters watching this situation.
  16. Don Hawkins from Ottawa, Canada writes: Garth, you wrote the following last year: Mulroney stood erect and impeccable at the podium in the caucus room. Outside, just beyond the double doors that sound-roofed the room, a phalanx of media waited, convinced some MPs would buckle under all the pressure, walk up to the forest of microphones, criticize their besieged leader and open the floodgates of party dissention. Just what any good reporter would want, of course. Blood. And Mulroney said: “If you want to be a media hero, just walk out those doors right now, go down the hall and do it. I guarantee you’ll be on the front page of every newspaper tomorrow and the lead item on the CBC tonight. Go ahead. I’ll still be here. But if you want to be a hero for Canada, then you will stand by me.” He stared into the eyes of everyone in that room. Anyone who harboured the remotest thought of mutiny felt it evaporate under his gaze. Leadership. Being a media hero is easy, fun and has instant rewards, I thought. Belinda Stronach. Carolyn Parrish. Scott Brison. Getting on the front page of the Globe and Mail and the National Post is a breeze. Just say what they want. Of course, I told the reporter Harper is our leader. We have only one leader at a time. The leader leads – it’s his job. A candidate’s highest job is to get elected. You seem to enjoy being a media hero. Also looking forward to the by-election where you will see if the voters of Halton wanted an independent MP or not. You are resigning, right?
  17. J Luft from Calgary, Canada writes: Garth, when will you be dating Belinda?
  18. Jim . from Calgary, Canada writes: First of all, congratulations Mr. Turner for sticking to your guns (now, just because I'm from Calgary doesn't mean I say that literally!) and supporting values you and your constituents believe in. You are right, there is not enough of a concern in Alberta by Conservative politicians over meaningful reductions in our economy's environmental damage. Obviously the Conservative tent is a very small one so you should run for the Green Pary. I think it would be fantastic for the Greens to get at least one seat in the House.
  19. George T from Mississauga, ON, Canada writes: Hi Garth, I was just wondering if you've thought about sitting in as a member of the 'Progressive Conservative Caucus'. I know that after the merger of the PCs and Alliance, a few members, including Joe Clark, remained seated as PC Caucus members. There is no legal problem with it, as I believe there may be a few senators who are doing it too.
  20. Ray Hall from Montreal, Canada writes: Hi Garth, Congratulations on sticking to your ideas, far too many of the other members of your former party have all capitulated to the false prince and his reign of error. Now while my first reaction was to say head over to the Greens, I urge to remain an independent, and try another run for the head of the Conservative Party. As an independent you are free to organize a leadership campaign while all other sitting members will be tied to the pretender to the thrown. The leadership of the Conservative Party will be available after the next election, since the failure to deliver a majority government will mean the end of Steve. There are over two hundred ridings east of the Manitoba boarder, which if organized could deliver you the leadership of the party. You have the reach, ability and the backing of a grassroots organization which will have you ready to take over the party in a very short time. I wish you well, and will volunteer to help you on your next undertaking. All the best. Ray
  21. Dee McNichol from Burlington, Canada writes: Mr. Turner, I am sorry for your troubles. I am proud that you stood your ground and are doing your best to actually REPRESENT THE WISHES OF YOUR CONSTIUENTS, even after getting elected! Imagine what the country could do if all MP's did that!! Far too many put up campaign promises that have nothing to do with how they behave once elected. It is no wonder the populace is so discouraged with polititians and in-fact equate polititian with liars (and worse), that they don't even bother to get out and vote. I say, 'Bravo' to you. I hope you will get elected as an independent. I truely appreciate someone who will take a stand and, if elected, proceed to take actual strides in the direction they proposed in their campaign. Regards, Dee McNichol.
  22. c e mendoza from victoria, Canada writes: I welcome the ouster of MP G. Turner since it will hasten the escalation of Steve Harper's demise as prime minister. More ousters will be good for Canada.
  23. Jerr Burlington from Canada writes: Turner is on record as having said that politicians who switch parties should go back to the people. He can sit as an independent without doing so. If he decides to join the Green Party I assume that he will resign and trigger a by-election in my riding of Halton. This would allow the constituents to decide if they wished to be represented by a Green Party MP.
  24. Karissa Belliveau from Canada writes: I went ahead and took Turner's challenge and did read his blog and I have to say, as an MP he said so pretty inflamatory things about his own party, why would his party put up with public bashing on the internet for even this long? Its extremely inappropriate to include financial numbers, to comment on the attractiveness of other MP's and many other things I found on his blog. As well there are also posts that were removed and re-written because they contained details of caucus meetings. Thats not serving your constituency or your political party, thats just trying the make yourself into 'a big deal' on the internet!
  25. k b from Canada writes: Bravo #16, Don Hawkins!!!! That might just have been the best post I've had the pleasure of reading on the G&M board. Well done, sir.
  26. Pete H from Canada writes: Lets not anyone kid themselves. The liberal hacks on this post that are clamouring about representation that speaks their mind, about freedom to represent their constituents only do so because that media hound has given them a message to support their own partisan position. The only reason Carolyn Parish hung on as long as she did was because the ditherers need wind speed and direction before they pulled the plug.
  27. Bob ImamI from Canada writes: Bye. Don't let the door hit ya on the way out. Politicians have no character or values. Turner is 100% ego. I'd like an elected senate. I'd like less tax. I'd like less payola. I'd like greater regional powers. I'd like freedom of religion. I'm a tory. Turner is not. See ya.
  28. Raging Right Wing Rhetoric from Somewhere, Canada writes: Garth, you are the man of the hour (or maybe a day). Great media stunt you pulled. You're very media savvy. But you betrayed your team, cast aspersions on the leader, so what choice did the CPC have? Sure, they could have given you fair warning and handled the whole process better. The style of your explusion shows how much you irritated the core CPC fraternity. But the CPC is right: you are not idealogically of the same fabric as the new merged Reform/Conservative party. And that blog just airs too much dirty laundry. Who wins this battle? Garth, you won round one, you sly media hound. But who wins the war? We'll see in the next election.
  29. b mac from Canada writes: Thank goodness Mr Turner is only a politician and not an Army Officer. At least no one will die from his inability to act as a team player, go along with majority decisions and do his job to the best of his ability. A person would have to be considewred a bit of an air head to go from being a member of the Conservative Party to joining up with one the Monty Python Flying Circus Parties ie. the Green and the NDP.
  30. David Bramwell from Burlington, Canada writes: Thank-you John. An elected member who sees their duties as I would like them to be seen. The last time you were in politics I was in your riding, voted for you and looked forward to the information pamphlets. The only time I have found those riding publications to have any substance. During this past election I longed to live on the other side of Walkers Line so I could be in your riding. We had no one with vision to vote for. Your methods should be praised and mimicked by your fellow MPs, not shunned. That you have been expelled reminds me and reinforces why I was and am wary of the Conservative Party in its present incarnation. Now we see a meaningless environmental policy at a time when true leadership on that front is so vital.. Good luck. I just hope that there are enough people expressing support like me to keep you in the race. David Bramwell
  31. John Barzo from Orillia, Canada writes: Leaving the greater debate aside, I think Canadians instinctively and viscerally, are looking for competency and effectiveness in their government. It was that competence and effectiveness in the Tory campaign that allowed them to take government (albeit barely). That effectiveness and competence was DEMONSTRATED by a disciplined campaign. I think that the ouster of Mr. Turner was necessitated by the continued need to DEMONSTRATE the Tory's competence and effectiveness in government.

    Whatever the academic merits of Mr. Turner's view of the appropriate role of an MP is, in my view, largely beside the point. The Tories were not elected because HE demonstrated a competent and effective campaign, but rather that Mr. Harper (as he them was) did. Although Mr. Turner may be painted as righteous in his actions, I suggest it is to the contrary. If he did not like the circumstances that he was in, he should have had the courage to do the right thing and voluntarily vote with his feet. Instead, he took it upon himself to engage in a vainly public battle to force others to make the decision he should have been adult enough to make on his own.
  32. nicholas clague from Truro, Canada writes: Congratulation to Mr. Turner for speaking his mind. The environment is too important to for the Conservatives to merely window dress. Steven Harper and his minority government was not elected to withdraw from Kyoto. Canada has always led by example in the world. Whilst Steven Harper and his Albertan oil sand constituents claim the oil sand revenues are theirs, the environmental consequences stretch far beyond Alberta's borders and will affect us all.
  33. James McBride from Whitby, writes: I have never voted Liberal in my life, but under the Harper 'regime' I have become a member of the Liberal Party. Thanks for speaking up and making anyone who believes in democracy proud.
  34. Will Chapman from Toronto, Canada writes: I'm not at all surprised that Garth Turner was turfed from the Conservative Party. My only real question is ...'what took them so long?' Something is just not right with this whole episode and most of what is not right sits on the shoulders of Mr. Turner. To explain: Turner is not a political neophyte, he's held office (I believe on at least two different times) and he's been (I believe) a minister in government. In short, he knows the political scene. He also knows the media and is media savvy, witness how he's been using it over the course of the last few days. I believe one of his entrepreneurial businesses is the business of multi-media. Therefore, he is fully aware that in today’s world of 'gotcha' journalism, political parties, or any organization for that matter, must be in lock step with everything that is being said. He knows this, but almost from day one, he elected to express an independent viewpoint which was often not in step with the rest of the party. No party would allow this; no party! To add to this, his opinion was often cloaked in criticism of the leadership of the party. Surely he knew that it wasn’t going to be allowed to continue indefinitely. He knew this, so why did he persist with it? That's the $64,000 question. Could it be that he has something else up his sleeve? If not, then he is not the smart man I once thought he was!
  35. Miles Lunn from Vancouver, Canada writes: I think Garth Turner should seriously consider joining the Liberals. Although he may be a maverick MP, there is far more tolerance for his views. While they may not be as keen on less government as he is, they took Scott Brison and Belinda Stronach who also favour smaller government. In addition they are fiscally conservative, but socially progressive. I am a former Progressive Conservative and now a Liberal and I think it is time other PCs realize their future lies with the Liberals, at least until Harper is gone.
  36. Ranald Walton from Hamilton, Canada writes: Leadership is never easy, but the leadership of the Conservative party did the right thing in expelling Mr Turner. To all the Liberal sychophants (such as Miles Lunn): this guy is too smart to accept pleas to join the sinking Liberal ship.
  37. Chris Hay from Regina, Canada writes: Ahh... the fond remembrances of days gone by - I had almost forgotten that endearing Conservative trait of eating their young, and viciously cannabilizing themselves in public. I assume gone are those bygone days when Reform/Conservatives bleated loudly about representing and being a strong voice for their riding while campaigning, only to arrive in Ottawa and adapt the 'idiot constituents back home know knothing - it's blindly follow the leader' . Perhaps we should adopt a new ballot - one that removes any name and only allows for an 'X' next to the party of choice since that is what we appear to want.
  38. Topo Gigio from Funkytown, Canada writes: I'm not surprised Turner was turfed but I agree with his remark that the timing is of interest. Why now? Maybe Big Steve thought the media frenzy would take the heat off the piece of garbage they're calling The Clean Air Act... I admire you, Mr. Turner, whether you're a media pimp or not. I am glad there's a Tory who will defend his constituents instead of lining up with the lemmings jumping off the cliff behind Big Steve. My own Tory MP wouldn't say boo to a goose: Stevo has them all muzzled in their quest for power -- how can they do their jobs, which is to represent their constituents, not pander to their leader (who by the way, is also supposed to be representing our interests, not caving to those of religious groups and other nations). Best of luck in the future, Garth.
  39. J Luft from Calgary, Canada writes: To #32 nicholas clague (who obviously lives in a bubble) says 'The environment is too important to for the Conservatives to merely window dress. Steven Harper and his minority government was not elected to withdraw from Kyoto.' You seem to have forgotten nick, that the Liberals were never elected to get us into the giant socialist scam called 'Kyoto'. But then you memory is selective, isn't it?
  40. Stu Pidass from Ottawa-Gatineau, Canada writes: Don't you just love it when blinded-by-ideology and reality-challenged right wingers keep piling all that crow onto the plate they will be feasting on in the near future? I can't wait to see their stunned faces grimace as they swallow their electoral defeat and choke on their vitriolic and arrogant pride. How many more parties can they cannibalize in order to get another once-in-a-lifetime opportunity like the one they are squandering just about every day? Harper may be competent but he sure isn't likable. I can't believe I was considering this party as my new electoral choice just this past spring.
  41. D G from toronto, Canada writes: I wish more MP's were like you Mr. Turner. There are very few Conservatives (ahem, term used loosely) that I would vote for largely because of their abysmal social policies but you I would vote for in a New York minute!
  42. Steve K from Alberta, Canada writes: # 7 - For the 10th time, Jack Ryan tells us about Turner's real estate advice in the 1990's. Thanks for the relevant info. You should also try to blame the Liberals in there while you are at it. Stand Up For Canada! ha :) [and such angry vehement comments from the CPC troglodytes... you'd think Turner had left the CPC rather than been turfed for standing up to Harpo... no wonder Canadians don't trust CPC/RW'ers... so angry & always hiding something/afraid of the truth to come out, always muzzling people & so much secrecy...]
  43. Michael Crowell from Halifax, Canada writes: Okay Grath you have been and always will be a Conservative. Despite your feelings Canadians have had a void in Government and Leadership for the past 12 years. We finally have a PM who stands for something. We all may not agree all of the time but at least he has convictions. Canada is starting to have some profile in the world and we require good Government to see that this Country becomes globally competative. The Liberals do not have the intelligence or credibility to make this happen. You have a lot to offer and I respectively ask you stay and help rebuild Canada. We have had too much talk, to many photo ops and no action from years of Liberalism. I disagree with many posters here. You cannot have 308 MPs running off in all directions trying to please every interest group in their Ridings. Political Parties and discipline among the ranks are a necessary evil. Back you go Grath; your too good a man to ever be a Liberal.
  44. Green Jerry from Canada writes: In any business or organization, if you slam the boss and your coworkers, you will be fired. Garth Turner is disloyal, egocentric and certainly not a team player. He got what he deserved. Sadly, so did his constituents.
  45. J. Knight from Peterborough, Canada writes: As a Green Party supporter, I would welcome Garth Turner to join our Party. There are several reasons why Garth Turner would fit with the Greens. One, the Greens believe the most important views are those of citizens, the Canadian electorate and the MP's job is to express the views of his/her constituents, not tow the Party line...Mr. Turner never let Stephen Harper do his thinking for him, he continually listens to his voters. He makes it part of his job (via his blog) to let his constituents and the rest of the world know what is going on in Ottawa. Two - Mr. Turner's constituents views and thus his views on Climate Change are right in sycn with Green Party Policy. Three- the Green's have a fiscally conservative approach to government spending. Waste of any kind, and overspending on programs with no measurable value is intolerable. Tax breaks should be given to voters, not to highly profitable oil companies. I hope Garth accepts the offer to join the Green Party.
  46. M W from Canada writes: To the Conservative apologists: Your government has tossed one of its members because the member was sharing information with you that your government doesn't want you to have, and because he has the audacity to think for himself. You've chosen to defend the government: the people who want to keep information from you and restrict the ability of YOUR elected representatives to think or act for themselves. You have truly received the government you deserve.
  47. Ranald Walton from Hamilton, Canada writes: To poster # 35, Miles Lunn: I think Mr Turner already answered your question about joining the Liberals (something about his veins running blue). So give it a rest. As far as 'other PCs realize their future is with the Liberals' is wishful thinking on your part, to the extreme. The Liberals certainly are not 'fiscally conservative' as you assert. I lived through 5 years of Premier Rae and I can tell you, any party that Mr Rae has a reasonable chance of leading is not 'fiscally conservative'. Liberals do not have a monopoly on 'tolerant views' nor do they have a monopoly on 'Canadian values' and the moderate path travelled by this new government attests to that. Canada needs viable alternatives for government, and the excesses of the previous 13 years of a 'one party state' government did not serve Canadians well. It is not too late for redemption, Mr Lunn, and you can follow the overwhelming majority of PC's (what was the vote in favour of merging: about 90%) to the modern, moderate and oh yes, governing Conservative party. Prime Minister Stephen Harper has a lovely ring to it.
  48. cam janssen from Victoria, Canada writes: NO. 35: The Liberals are fiscally conservative? By what measure, exactly? Federal government revenue (read: taxes stolen from Canadians) was up 50% under Cretin while his incompetent sidekick Mr. Dithers downloaded costs on the provinces. I could balance my books, too, if I had access to my neighbour's bank account and I made my other neighbour pay all my bills. Garth Turner is a media wh*re. His brand is 'Garth Turner.' He was a footnote to the Kim Campbell fiasco and now he'll be a footnote to Harper's government. This guy is so bright, he wrote an entire book called The Strategy where he counselled people to mortgage the s*** out of their houses to buy into the stock market just before it cratered. He's not smart enough to be an MP, much less a cabinet minister.
  49. Mervin Hollingsworth from Saskatoon, Sk., Canada writes: Mr. Turner deserved to be turfed from caucus. Politics is a blood sport, a team sport and it is more effective for a politician to criticize his opponents rather than his own government or colleagues. Anybody who reads Mr. Turner's blogs knew a lot of the stuff was coming from discussions in caucus. He denies suggesting what measures the Finance Minister may put in his budget next year were not based on fact but a pressure tactic. However, people reading that blog posting would assume that he got the information from the government. Therefore he sets the table for the Finance Minister which would cause him to appear to be waffling when those issues are not in the next budget. Mr. Turner knows full well why he was thrown out of caucus. There is no doubt in my mind. Given this is a minority parliament and every seat counts the decision was not taken lightly I am sure. By the way Mr. Turner I expect you to put your money where your ample mouth is. If you decide to join the Green Party I would expect that you would resign and wait for a bi- election to have your constituents confirm that they indeed want a member of the Green Party representing them rather than an MP from the government side of the benches.
  50. Geoffrey L from Hamilton, Canada writes: Garth, you are the most responsive, interactive politician in Canadian history and that makes the rest of them look bad! No wonder they threw you out of the party. You have done more for Canadian politics than any Prime Minister in my lifetime. Keep up the good work and express your constituents' message. It would seem that the only message that is acceptable to the ruling party is what the Conservative Party Bureaucrats want to hear. You changed the equation and made whatever message your constituents gave you is what they should hear. It is like the Conservative Party is saying that they do not want to hear what your Halton Constituents have to say.
  51. Chris Laurin from Kitchener, Canada writes: Garth - your a shameless self promoter , go away, you remind me of sheia cops. Werent you the investment guru who touted gold like 15 yrs ago? Even got yer picture took holding a bar of it. Your no better at politics, the conservatives did the right thing. You should be ashamed for leaking sensitive party issues in an effort to engrandise your self on your blog - blog about who?
  52. Harvey Jones from Vegreville, Canada writes: Often disagreed with Garth, BUT fully agree with him now! Ophra would say'you go gal'.
  53. David Simon from Canada writes: The least Garth Turner could do is to leave part of his massive ego to one of his former Tory colleagues. Not too much to ask?
  54. B Fulsom from Menlo Park, United States writes: Post #16: Very interesting quote. Touché. I hope this little reminder of Mr. Turner's own words causes him to consider carefeully Stronach, Brison, Copps, Parrish, and where they are politcally today...
  55. Douglas MacDONALD from edmontonedmonton, Canada writes: to post #27 personally i would like freedom from religion not freedom of religion.
  56. John Lord from Vancouver, Canada writes: Garth, you are not that important. Not as important as the party that many of us voted for, and the platform that they are implementing. Obviously you think you are more important then all of that, but many of us respectfully disagree. Move on.
  57. dave s from Canada writes: It is refreshing to hear an elected representative speak his mind, and stand up for what he believes is right for his constituents. However I think that Mr. Turner acted inappropriately with his blog, and his parting shots at the Conservative party. There has to be a middle ground.
  58. Gordon White from Vancouver, Canada writes: Why is it that Garth Turner gets compared to turncoats like Belinda Stronach, instead of Cadman? I absolutely respected Cadman's decision to listen to his voters on keeping the Martin government in power, if not agreeing with his voters' decision. This is supposed to be a democracy people - rule of the people by the people for the people - not ruled by Herr Harper.

    Turner claims to work for his constiuents, and that should not be labelled a crime. Yes, he's got a big ego. Yes, he knows how to use the media. But, in politics, that's not a crime, that's a pre-requisite.

    If Garth Turner can come out on top in a by-election, he's going to make all of his malcontents and former caucus colleagues look very foolish. At this point, I am content to sit back and observe - better known as 'giving him enough rope to hang himself' or 'save himself'. It'll be interesting to check back in six months...
  59. wddfwf dsffgeg from toronto, Canada writes: As a(nother) life-long Progressive Conservative, I can only say that I REALLY miss the PC Party!!! There is no way I can support the dinosaurs in the 'NEW' conservative party, and of course nobody with ANY priniciples could seriously call themselves a Fiberal/Liberal, so what's a person to do?? I went Green last time, and it would be interesting to see Garth pick up that flag to see how it flies ...
  60. M C from Canada writes: X conservative MP and Cabinet Minister returns , Ooppps he's back alright ala back bench. ' Whoaa there..... I'm the guy who does the stupid mortgage commercials . You can't do that to me I'm a player!!'. So he starts mouthing off from day one knowing they'll have to promote him to shut him up (which is what he wants ) or they'll have to boot him. How come nobody swooned over this guy as the outspoken protector of freedom of speech during his last stint as an MP? When did this ' Rebel with no Cause' legend start....today that's when! Back then he had what he wanted and didn't have to sulk. Now that he's Mr. Nobody Back Bench Warmer, he can't keep his mouth shut. Promote him or boot him? Another good decision made by Harper.
  61. michael dalimonte from Canada writes: it is refreshing to see that a politician still exists that understands that they represent the people of there riding and not the priveledged few.unlike the representive from haldimand norfolk that has forgotten about the citizens of haldimand norfolk
  62. Michael H from Edmonton, Canada writes: The significance of this is very obvious to anyone who doesn't vote Conservative. While outspoken, Turner was a social moderate. Like other social moderates before him, he is out. That's all Canadians need to know. J. Luft, self-proclaimed global warming expert, what are your credentials in science? Can you even critically evaluate a scientific article or do you rely upon people with agendas to do that for you? All of your rants about self-serving scientists are just that. As a Ph.D. and a professional scientist, I can tell you that I work long hours for little pay (just like the climatologists) to make a contribution to society. I never run out of ideas and am not tied to a particular research problem in order to keep my research program running. The climatologists aren't either. There will always be climate problems to study. It doesn't matter whether there is funding specifically targeted for global warming or not. In the U.S., I expect that the answer is there is not funding targeted for global warming. One thing is very clear when it comes to global warming, you are paranoid and delusional (i.e. socialist conspiracy to redistribute wealth). You continually criticize others for their lack of intelligence while it is clear that yours, by the very nature of your comments, is limiting. As for the Liberals global warming policy, the C.D. Howe Institute stated that they would reach 80% of the objective and the cost was a little over $1 billion/yr. What hindered them were Albertans and their Conservative representatives. This occurred both while they were in power and while they were out of power. The Liberals deserve a great deal of criticism but, like most Canadians are starting to realize, they are with certainty, the lessor of two evils. This government played up the global warmining/clean air policy and they failed to deliver. All they can do is blame the Liberals. Completely irresponsible.
  63. brian mccormack from London, Canada writes: Whatever you think of Turner and his antics, his removal from the CPC caucus is evidence of something which Harper's supporters are going to have to come to terms with one way or another. Unlike under the Mulroney Conservatives -- funny how Garth had no difficulty being a team player in that government -- this party no longer has any place for a Red Tory. Where the votes are going to come from if the Harper Conservative are going to retain power (much less form a majority) is beyond me.
  64. Connie Fogal from Vancouver BC, Canada writes: David Turner is to be admired for exercising independent thought in the interest of Canada, not just his constitutents. Is he willing to stand up to defend Canada against the total unification of Canada with the USA and Mexico into one giant Fortress America currently being implemented by the defacto government of industry, military, financial, academic elites along with current and former federal Cabinet ministers, as well as provincial representatives of government both elected and officials? What is his position on the secret meeting of the secret government for North America which met in Banff Alta. on Sept 12 to 14, 2006 which no media covered except for one in Banff after the event? The Canadian Action Party received and released the secret agenda and list of attendees including Stockwell Day,General Rick Hillier, Gordon O'Connor, Canada's Minister of Defence, Rear Admiral Roger Girouard, Thomas D'Aquino, ,Pierre Marc Johnston, Hon. John P Manley,Hon. Anne McLellan,Hon. Perrin Beatty, Col. Peter Atkinson, Dr Wendy Dobson and others from Canada. They met with significant people from the USA like Donald Rumsfeld, Admiral Tim Keating, Dr James Schlesinger along with others from Mexico coordinatiing the demise of three nations and the creation of one new North American entity with no protections, security or freedom or rights for the citizens and resources of the respective countries. Is Mr Turner willing to expose and defend against that treason (an overt act in violation of the allegiance owed to one's state-Webster's dictionary). If so, The Canadian Action Party/Parti action canadienne seeks his endorsement of our party, and would solicit him as our candidate to represent his constituency in our name. Connie Fogal, Leader, CAP/PAC
  65. Carlos Idelone from Vancouver, Canada writes: I hope, that all the conservative supporters here are wealthy business people. If you are not, you might be taken for dupes, since these are the only people Harper answers to, like his big, bad brother to the south. I hope, that you run as an independent Mr. Turner, since at this time, when the lumbering dino parties are so close in numbers, independents can really wield some power, as Mr. Cadman showed in the last Parliament. I think more independent (minded) candidates would be a remedy for our stagnant 'party' democracy. I hope, that we always have minority governments, since I don't think any of our political parties can be trusted with control of the entire country.
  66. Rick McNaulty from Calgary, Canada writes: How wonderful for you Mr Turner you're the talk of the town. Well for another day or two. If you worked in the public sector like most of us Mr Turner you would have been fired long ago. Loyalty and humility are important to the Conservatives and their supporters. Your qualities might fit better with Liberal/NDP/Greens.
  67. Roderick Mackin from Vancouver, Canada writes: It was the beard, Garth. Too socialist. Too scruffy. Too NDP. Too Toby Zeigler. Remember him? He was the West Wing character who got thrown out on his ass for being a sanctimonious butt pain, just like you. The only difference is that show was cancelled, wheras the voters of Halton have to do that job for us next time. We know you need the job or you'd quit. Why not flap your hairy gums for a while until you get an offer from an obscure, upper tier cable program, where you belong.
  68. Back by popular request....Shawn Bull from Canada writes: M W #46: Turner was not tossed because of sharing information we were not too see. He was tossed because he broke confidentiality rules. This is not the old Liberal party where corruption and lack of integrity rule. This is a Conservative government that is led by a tough leader. This is good for Canada as the public became misled and acceptance of dishonest government led by Chretien/Martin.

Comments are closed

Thanks for your interest in commenting on this article, however we are no longer accepting submissions. If you would like, you may send a letter to the editor.

Report an abusive comment to our editorial staff

close

Alert us about this comment

Please let us know if this reader’s comment breaks the editor's rules and is obscene, abusive, threatening, unlawful, harassing, defamatory, profane or racially offensive by selecting the appropriate option to describe the problem.

Do not use this to complain about comments that don’t break the rules, for example those comments that you disagree with or contain spelling errors or multiple postings.