The race for the Liberal leadership is starting to take form as candidates declare their intention to run (Bob Rae, Dominic Leblanc), declare their intention not to run (Frank McKenna, John Manley), prepare to run (Michael Ignatieff), or openly talk about considering a run (Gerard Kennedy).
Of these candidates, the one I who think is best to lead the Liberals is Gerard Kennedy. To begin with, he is experienced in government as he was Ontario's Education Minister, and a successful one at that as he brought labour peace with the teachers' unions, something which eluded the earlier Conservative and NDP governments in that province.
Also, Kennedy is young and has a strong appeal among youth. Furthermore, with his background as a foodbank director, he has roots in the community working to help people. This kind of background is similar to Barack Obama's background as a community organizer. Furthermore, as Barack Obama supported Howard Dean's 50-state strategy, Gerard Kennedy has voiced his support for a 308 riding strategy which will be important as the Liberals desperately need to expand their electoral map. The Liberal Party has to be more than just the party of the Greater-Toronto-Area.
As well, Gerard Kennedy has a strong commitment to social justice issues and would be a great standard-bearer for a principled and progressive Liberal Party.
