May 28, 2007 | In Politics |
I noticed an interesting editorial on CANOE.ca this weekend about Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s political strategy, and how he could ultimately be harming his own chances at a majority government.
Peter Worthington of Sun Media writes that Harper has little to gain by pandering to the beliefs of Canadian Liberals on issues like private medical clinics, same-sex marriage, and the mission in Afghanistan. The Prime Minister should be true to his own beliefs and succeed or fail with ideological honour, Worthington argues.
Although this article tends to simplify things a little (obviously, some bridge-building is necessary in politics), I generally agree with the message that history’s greatest leaders have been some of the most principled ones. I’m not saying that politicians don’t have to tweak and improve upon their political views over time, but they shouldn’t have to sell their souls in doing so.
From where I stand, Stephen Harper seems to be an honest and principled leader who is quite capable of leading this country and doing it well. The more time our Prime Minister spends pouring over polls, however, and giving up on his own beliefs in hopes of pleasing everyone, the more respect he stands to lose. And it’s respect — not hour-by-hour poll numbers — that defines a great leader.
