Bob Rae Launches Leadership Campaign: Stresses “Judgment, Character, Values and Experience”

Ottawa November 20, 2008

Toronto Centre MP Bob Rae today announced his candidacy for the Leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada. In a news conference at the National Press Theatre, Rae stressed the qualifications he has built up over his 30-year political career. “I am running,” said Rae, “because I believe I have the judgment, the character, the values and the experience to lead at a very difficult time in the life of our country.”

Rae claimed he’s “ready to roll” as a leader, and linked his personal qualities and life story not only to the challenge of leading in a downturn, but also to bringing the Liberals back to power. “I can go toe to toe with Mr. Harper and move past him,” said Rae, “to form a government that can serve in the broad national interest for all Canadians.”

Greeted by a crowd of youthful supporters, Rae also pledged to “grow the Liberal Party,” by attracting voters to engage in the leadership race and by making membership in the party free. “I am calling today for an amendment to the party rules that will make Liberal membership absolutely free, now and forever”, said Rae. He also called for numerous public debates as a part of the leadership process.

In addition to this morning’s speech and news conference, Rae held an open Bloggers’ News Conference. Tomorrow, he will address the Canadian Club of Toronto on the economy, with a speech entitled “Lessons Learned; Steps Forward.”

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Contact: Al Toulin