The Case for Change
Bob Simpson MLA
On October 7, Cariboo North MLA Bob Simpson was ejected from the BCNDP legislative caucus by Carole James, without consultation of other sitting NDP MLAs. His only apparent offence was penning an online editorial that criticized James' speech at the 2010 UBCM convention as lacking in substance and specifics.
Bob's unilateral expulsion from the caucus has made clear a democratic deficit in the BCNDP, and a lack of leadership by Carole James – as was made clear by numerous former BCNDP MLAs, cabinet ministers, and candidates (as well as many grassroots party supporters) who were shocked and disappointed by this heavy-handed suppression of Bob's opinions, and have expressed the belief that Carole James should be replaced as leader at next year's biennial convention in November.
Since becoming party leader seven years ago, Carole James has led the BCNDP to two election defeats. Today, memberships and fundraising are both in decline, while the current party leadership seems to be completely sidelined in the HST debate. At a time when our province needs progressive leadership more than ever, Carole James' personal popularity remains well behind that of the BCNDP in recent public opinion polls.
There is no doubt that Carole James is a hard worker and a dedicated New Democrat. But BC and the BCNDP both need change – the kind of change that will truly challenge the incompetent, regressive Campbell government and hold it to account.
That's why we, loyal BCNDP members and organizers from across BC, are putting forward Guy Gentner's name for the next leader of the NDP. Please learn more about Guy here, and find out how you can help effect positive change here.
Bob's unilateral expulsion from the caucus has made clear a democratic deficit in the BCNDP, and a lack of leadership by Carole James – as was made clear by numerous former BCNDP MLAs, cabinet ministers, and candidates (as well as many grassroots party supporters) who were shocked and disappointed by this heavy-handed suppression of Bob's opinions, and have expressed the belief that Carole James should be replaced as leader at next year's biennial convention in November.
Since becoming party leader seven years ago, Carole James has led the BCNDP to two election defeats. Today, memberships and fundraising are both in decline, while the current party leadership seems to be completely sidelined in the HST debate. At a time when our province needs progressive leadership more than ever, Carole James' personal popularity remains well behind that of the BCNDP in recent public opinion polls.
There is no doubt that Carole James is a hard worker and a dedicated New Democrat. But BC and the BCNDP both need change – the kind of change that will truly challenge the incompetent, regressive Campbell government and hold it to account.
That's why we, loyal BCNDP members and organizers from across BC, are putting forward Guy Gentner's name for the next leader of the NDP. Please learn more about Guy here, and find out how you can help effect positive change here.
"Leadership is not about punishing people who disagree or challenge, unless they are blatantly obstructionist. Mr. Simpson's record suggests he is better informed and more thoughtful than most MLA's, and his local support and re-election in a close riding likely derives from a good record as MLA."
–Former NDP MLA Tom Perry
–Former NDP MLA Tom Perry
Copyright (c) 2010, The Committee to Draft Guy Gentner for BCNDP Leadership.
This web site is not endorsed by Guy Gentner's office or the Delta North BCNDP Riding Association.
This web site is not endorsed by Guy Gentner's office or the Delta North BCNDP Riding Association.
