Reactions to Premier Gordon Campbell’s Resignation

British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell today announced his resignation (more here). Gordon Campbell (a Liberal) has a long record of public service as Mayor of Vancouver (1986-1993), Leader of the Opposition (1993-2001) and Premier of BC starting June 5, 2001.*

New Democratic Party leader Carole James acknowledged Mr. Campbell’s service to the province but then displayed a lack of class in that she then attacked his record and policies. Certainly she is the Leader of the Opposition but Ms. James seems to be in want of true leadership as she could not hold her tongue in simple respect to Mr. Campbell’s service.

Debra McPherson (President of the BC Nurses Union) was ugly and un-nurse-like in her attack of Mr. Campbell.* Now I am not one to think that politics is to be only for those with class, sophistication and compassion. However it is interesting to see the vitriol and hate from those on the political left, those who claim to own the turf on kindness.

While the policies of Mr. Campbell may be unpopular to some or even most of British Columbians he was elected Premier three straight times. He has served the province for nine years as Premier and was in opposition for eight years. Carole James as Leader of the Opposition (for the past seven years) should then have respect on a single day, the announcement of his resignation, for a person that has served so long.

On the Canadian national stage when such an announcement is made the leaders of all the political parties show decorum and respect for their fellow elected civil servant.

It is a sad day for British Columbia as a hopeful “Premier in waiting” has proven once again to be an un-leader… For some time Mr. Campbell has been thought of as at the least arrogant by those who disagree with his policies and Ms. James has for long been thought of as incompetent by her detractors.

Perhaps this is a good time to clean house in Victoria, as the Liberal’s choose a new leader our next Premier the NDP should pick a new leader, one who has more class than class warfare in her mind and on her tongue…

Please note I am not and never have been affiliated with any political party…