NDP leader goes on attack at debate

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 13/09/2011 (5480 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitoba’s normally reserved NDP leader stepped up his attacks yesterday during the first leaders debate of the 2011 provincial election.

Greg Selinger came out swinging in his opening remarks accusing his opponent, Progressive Conservative Leader Hugh McFadyen, of lying to Manitobans about his apparent plans to privatize Crown corporations like Manitoba Hydro.

While it’s a refrain that has become a familiar Selinger talking point, the onset of the election campaign and a recent Probe Research poll that showed the two parties neck and neck in popular support have likely forced the premier to fight hard to ensure an NDP victory come Oct. 4.

Selinger, who is typically more reserved and calm, was particularly aggressive in his remarks throughout the debate, with hints of both frustration and ill-temper in his voice as he repeatedly interrupted McFadyen.

In fact, the entire debate devolved into a constant joust for attention as Selinger and McFadyen traded accusations of dishonesty and being untrustworthy.

At one point, Selinger referred to McFadyen’s “crazy” plan to put the Bipole III transmission line down the east side of the province.

McFadyen, on the other hand, said Selinger and the NDP are lying in a series of attack ads that said the Tories would privatize Hydro and other Crown corporations.

Earlier in the morning, the head of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce told those in the audience that he hoped for an election based on ideas — well that was wishful thinking.

So far, this election has been about who has the loudest voice or the best sound bite. Par for the course, perhaps.