The turnout for the rally filled the room, but it was not overflow. At 9:30 am Sunday morning, it largely attracted long-time NDP members, officials, and candidates. It was also an event at which I didn't feel particularly old, seeing almost a complete absence of young people. The two local candidates spoke briefly (the Sheraton Guildford sits on the dividing line between the ridings of Surrey North and Fleetwood-Port Kells), and then Jack came in. He was limping badly and using a crutch, the result of a stress fracture suffered recently. He says that he's able to campaign, but I wondered if he'll hold up. I can't see him doing much main-streeting.
Jack's speech was a pep talk, promising better pensions, more doctors and health services, assistance to families, more affordability, and an attempt to link the Conservatives with the unpopular Harmonized Sales Tax, which caused the BC Premier to resign last fall. He urged everyone to get out and work for the NDP candidates.
As Jack was speaking, his speech was also displayed on three large tele-prompters, allowing him to see it, regardless of the direction in which he faced. This gave the impression of speaking spontaneously, but I could read the words before he said them. Obviously, this technique serves well for people watching at home, but it seemed somewhat artificial for a rally.
Also missing was any literature spelling out details of the NDP program. Hopefully, this will develop as the campaign progresses. Speaking generally about improving services or reducing living costs makes the NDP sound similar to the other parties. They need specific proposals. He didn't mention the environment, alternative energy sources, job training, youth issues, or the cost of housing. Of course, you can only do so much in a short speech.
I shook Jack's hand and wished him good luck. I noticed the NDP were ahead of the other parties with their signs, already staking out good locations. Voting is May 2.
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