NDP, Copps go own ways - Toronto Star [View All]

[Screaming Lord Byron]

http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=thestar/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1077664212631&call_pageid=968332188774&col=968350116467

OTTAWA—The NDP has closed its doors to Sheila Copps.

In a phone conversation yesterday, NDP MP Alexa McDonough said the Hamilton East MP understood that if she loses her Liberal nomination fight, she won't be welcomed into NDP arms.

She could not be because she'd have no credibility and would be perceived as "damaged goods" — a point Copps has always understood, McDonough said.

"She was clear from the beginning that there was no interest in exploring candidacy with the NDP locally or nationally as some kind of a consolation prize," the Halifax MP said.

Copps has been fighting a nomination battle with Martin supporter Tony Valeri in the new riding of Hamilton East-Stoney Creek, which merges both their former ridings.

The former heritage minister has publicly maintained that Paul Martin supporters are trying to push her out of the party.

Probably for the best, I imagine. What will Sheila do if she loses the nomination? I can't see Martin letting her beat Valeri.