The upcoming provincial election in Carleton-Mississippi Mills will not be based on the idea of parties' leaders but rather the competition of two visions for the future.
The current PC candidate, Jack MacLaren represents a vision of smaller government and an agriculture-based Ontario.
This view, one of agrarian libertarian values, has been slowly developing over the past few years, spearheaded by the landowners' organizations across the province. The person or persons who decide to run against him will have to not link themselves solely to their party platforms. Instead, they will have to run on their vision for the future of Ontario.
There are many issues that should be discussed. Unfortunately or fortunately for some, the discourse coming from Mr. MacLaren is at a level above that. MacLaren presents a compelling vision of the future.
To campaign against a man who has such a painted vision will have to convey a vision that is greater than currently in place and that of Mr. MacLaren.
People are hurting. People are looking for someone to make things better. But no matter what happens in Ontario, it will get worse before it gets better. We have been running on the victories of yesterday for too long and are now facing the consequences.
MacLaren presents a way out to some, but whoever challenges him will have to do both better and different.
Alex Aronec
West Carleton