Opposition Leader Jack Layton dead at 61

[shockedcanadian]

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/opposition-leader-jack-layton-dead-at-61/article2137070/

Definitely a man who fought for the little guy and carried himself with principle and integrity. I have never voted, but his presence always provided a compelling reason to vote for his party.

R.I.P Jack.

[RedSock]

1. your name is appropriate

shocking and sad news. hopefully, all the new ndp members of the house can fill this gigantic hole in the party. glad he got to see this success.

[dancing kali]

4. Unfortunately, there isn't anyone in the wings.

I'm in a traditionally NDP riding and for as much as I like my MP, he's not leadership material... and the one former MP who I thought would make for an interesting leader blew his political career away for a diamond ring. In the same way that the Liberals will never find another Trudeau, the NDP will never find another Layton. I mourn for my party.

[iverglas]

7. you may be a little young ...

but I don't think Jack quite made it to the stature of Ed. They are/were different people, and Jack would undoubtedly have proved worthy, but it's kinda hard to beat Ed for all round being liked all round. I was a candidate during his day, and I saw the same personal appeal that apparently worked for Jack.

And we did have Tommy in our ranks. We've done pretty well, as party leaders go. ;) Both Libby Davies and Thomas Mulcair suffer from lacunae when it comes to obvious leadership qualities, but, well, all we can do for the moment is wait and see. In all those new faces, there's got to be a few who will be able step up and do us proud in the House for now.

[CHIMO]

2. RIP Jack

[iverglas]

3. tuvor has told the neighbours in LBN

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=102x4969159

It would be nice to see more of them sending flowers and bringing us casseroles ... unfortunately I think the subject line there is a mystery to most.

We could all add our Jack memories to that thread.

[rurallib]

5. Thought I would stop in and express my condolences

I truly admired Mr. Layton from across the border.

[iverglas]

6. very neighbourly of you ;)

Thank you, from this 40+ year member of the NDP. We'll try to keep our end up in his absence, as large an absence as it will be.