Regardless of party affiliation, there was some exciting News this week for residents across the riding of Wellington-Halton Hills.
Current MP Michael Chong announced on Monday he is seeking the nomination to lead the Conservative Party of Canada. Rumours had swirled for months that a run was possible. Now we know for sure.
Off hand we can’t recall a previous occasion when a local MP sought a federal leadership post. The News is big, and it is refreshing News for the country.
We knew of his impending announcement last Wednesday. Out of courtesy to his riding first, we along with other media outlets around here were granted an interview, before the News was officially announced in Ottawa on Monday. Other outlets obviously found it difficult to keep the News secret, choosing to report it as a question – Will Chong announce on Monday? Ah, reporters on the world-wide web.
Oddly, this dalliance with honour and the media is something Chong will need to get used to. The positive working relationship to be found when dealing with most local media, is not something to be counted on at the national stage. It can be vicious.
Luckily for Chong he is regarded as a fundamentally decent person. He has preached tolerance, transparency and honour for lack of a better term, for years now. Accolades from fellow politicians attest to that point. In the rough and tumble world of partisan politics, he has managed to remain a moderate voice serving all constituents.
Chong, now 44, with his wife Carrie and three sons in tow, walked the grounds of the parliament buildings on Monday. It was a scene reminiscent of Prime Minister Trudeau’s walkabouts – a new generation of politicians is emerging.
As Newscasts quickly sped off to cover other potential candidates who may or may not announce, we wondered to ourselves maybe if it isn’t time for fresh blood in the leader’s office. The cast of characters trotted out were well known, but all carried some form of political baggage.
Chong has the distinction of standing on his personal principles, which is something few politicians can claim. Unlike his compatriots within the party, he stands out in this regard.
As the leadership process begins and Chong travels the country, we wish him and his family the best. It will be an exciting time for them all.
