Dear Editor:
RE: Tired of being a chump? (Jan. 30).
Thanks for your editorial last week. I agree 100% with your position. We should not be subjected to an early election, wasting an estimated $185 million that could have so many better uses.
But then to deny the PC party members in Wellington-Halton Hills the opportunity to choose our own representative to replace Ted Arnott was the height of the Ford government arrogance.
As you mentioned, there were three applicants who had been approved and vetted by the organizing committee and a meeting for party members to hear presentations from the three individuals had been planned. All of this was cancelled because of the early election call and one candidate was chosen.
Although it would appear that he was the least qualified applicant, despite his age and lack of experience he may have been the chosen representative. We’ll never know. Everyone loses to feed Doug Ford’s ego.
The other two applicants obviously lost, and Racinsky also lost because he never had the opportunity to prove he deserved the win. The residents of the Wellington-Halton Hills riding ultimately may be the biggest losers, with unqualified representation at Queen’s Park.
I joined the PC party, specifically to vote at the Feb. 15 nomination meeting. Because I will not have the opportunity to listen to the applicants and cast my vote, I have sent a letter to the local committee and copied Ted Arnott, asking for a refund of my membership. I have no expectation of receiving a refund but, Ted did give me a call, understanding my frustration.
I agree with your editorial; Doug Ford needs a lesson this election. For the first time in my 80 years, I will not be voting PC.
Kirk McElwain,
Ariss