Trudeau fought for a culturally inclusive Canada that recognized the importance of francophones outside Quebec - many of whom live in the West. Westerners grew to dislike Trudeau, but they eventually grow to dislike all federal leaders, says Taylor. Still, Trudeau's legacy in the West may best be summed up by how westerners have fought to avoid a return to his style of politics. Free trade was popular in the West, partly because it precluded any return of NEP-like legislation. Memories of the NEP were one of the main reasons Lougheed bargained hard for a constitutional amending formula that requires Ottawa to consult the provinces about any changes.
Liberals still have a hard time west of Winnipeg.
Current Justice Minister cabinet minister Anne McLellan had a tough fight in 1996 to win her Edmonton seat, but win she did. Maciej is prepared to admit times and attitudes have changed, but the bad old days aren't forgotten. But it cost the country a fortune.