Interesting - just one of many words to describe B.C. politics these days. And things just got a lot more interesting on Wednesday morning didn't they?
The riding of Powell River-Sunshine Coast was suddenly in the provincial media spotlight as MLA Nicholas Simons declared his intentions to seek the leadership of the New Democrats.
Simons was the second candidate to enter the race, joining former B.C. Marijuana Party leader Dana Larsen, who on Dec. 29 said he would try and seek the top seat. And Thursday morning, Fraser-Nicola MLA Harry Lali was poised to throw his hat in the ring as well.
We have to be honest that we were a bit surprised by Simons' decision. Not that we don't think he is qualified for the job. His record speaks for itself in that regard. Since he was elected to represent this riding in 2005, Simons has been popular with area residents and has done a good job representing our interests. He engages well in debate and responds to concerns from constituents. And while his government is not yet in a position to do too much to affect change, Simons has lobbied hard for such things as B.C. Ferries and highway improvements. His willingness to try and help can not be denied.
But Simons is relatively unknown outside of this riding and does not hold a high portfolio within the party. As of yet, he does not have the backing of any current sitting MLAs and he was also a part of the so called "Baker's Dozen" the 13 MLAs who forced leader Carole James to resign in early December -all things that will be big hurdles and challenges for him to overcome.
Simons has yet to shed a lot of light into why he chose to not support James. He has said to us and other media outlets that he had concerns with her leadership and he wanted to address those concerns in private, which is all fine and good. He's putting on a brave face saying that the party is not as divided as it appears and that he still has good relationships with the MLAs who supported James. He wants to move past what happened and focus on the future, focus on rebuilding and revitalizing the party - all admirable endeavours, but if Simons is serious about becoming party leader he will have to answer the questions about James and show the party why he should be the chosen one.
His entry into this race will affect his political future, as he will inevitably be judged for his performance along with the ideas and issues he thinks are important. Interesting times indeed.
-Ian Jacques
