Globe and Mail Feature by Cdn Tory defector Scott Brison

[Screaming Lord Byron]

I believe that my values and those of my constituents are better reflected in the new Liberal Party under the leadership of Mr. Martin than in the new Conservative Party. Under his leadership, the new Liberal Party will be a powerful vehicle for positive change. I have spoken with Paul about his vision for Canada and it is a vision that I share.

http://www.globeandmail.com/servlet/ArticleNews/TPStory/LAC/20031212/COBRISON12/TPComment/TopStories

Well, it would seem Brison believes Paul Martin to be the modern embodiment of PC values. His support of the Liberals seems to be conditional on Martin being PM. What will he do when Martin retires?

[terrya]

1. Something this American can't understand about this.

I read the Globe and Mail each day, so I have a slight bit of knowledge about the merger of the PC's and the Alliance Party.

I know Scott Brison defected to the Liberals, because he (understandably) felt like he wouldn't belong in the new United right party.

My question: Brison has criticized Paul Martin in the past. How can he suddenly align himself with Martin and the Liberal Party? Isn't that a bit, um, inconsistent?

[Screaming Lord Byron]

2. Brison passed it off as partisan politics, but he was pretty scathing.

Many reckon Martin bought him with a cabinet position. I haven't seen his name mentioned today yet, though. I have no respect for turncoats, but Brison's argument is that his party is dead. The really interesting thing is that Brison can move from PC to Paul Martin Liberal without changing any views at all.

[Minstrel Boy]

3. Brison's easing into the Liberal Party is more of a coup for the NDP

More ammunition for Jack Layton to deride Martin and the Libs as nothing but tricked-out Tories, so the NDP can stake sole claim to the left.

[Screaming Lord Byron]

4. Bingo. Brison's move emphasises Martin's appeal to conservatives.

This may kill the right as Martin muscles in on their territory.