Voted Liberal Today & Why I’m Sad

Of the three (realistic) options in today’s election, I didn’t find any all that appealing. I consider myself socially progressive and fiscally conservative. So when Harper arrived on the scene with the new Conservative banner it seemed like a good fit, and I voted for him twice after. I remember watching Harper’s first debates and appreciating his calm demeanor; he struck me as a capable statesman. 9 years later it’s time to switch camps.

An accumulation of baggage eventually weighs the owner down to the point of stumbling and falling — William Thorsell via Macleans

William Thorsell has one of the more succinct arguments I’ve read, if a little one-sided. It’s easy to lose sight of an incumbent’s positive efforts during an emotional & combative election. Some of my favourite Conservative moments include Harper’s showdown with Putin over Ukraine and Jim Flaherty’s stewardship of the economy through a rough spell.

That said, the perceived intolerance of the Reform Party & Canadian Alliance — conservative forebears — reared its ugly head more than I’m comfortable with in the new Conservative Party.

Another big knock against Harper has been his controlling nature; in some respects that’s true. His ability to whip votes and keep party members in line is something I admire in a leader. Muzzling and a general loss of transparency I do not.

The Liberal platform is broad and expensive, but even if they only accomplish a handful of their goals I believe they’re the right ones.

It’s sad to see any politician go out after almost a decade of service to their country on the lowest note. I’m sad that Harper strayed from what myself and many Canadians expected of him almost a decade ago.

As ridiculed as the Globe & Mail’s endorsement of a “Conservative Harper Government without the Harper” was — they have a point. The Conservative Party needs a shake-up and that’s what I hope this vote will help do.