First, any alternative must have as its clear goal its intent to replace the Liberal Party in government. There is a place on our political spectrum for parties that advocate minority opinions on the far left or the far right, but, realistically, such parties will never challenge for Government in Canada. Second, any alternative must be broadly-based. It must be acceptable to a large enough cross-section of Canadians to actually form a government. Inclusive parties win.
Exclusive parties lose.
Third, any alternative must offer a centrist political program, with conservative fiscal policy balanced by progressive social policy. Canadians are centrists in our political thinking, not radicals. The challenge of modern times is not to articulate a new political philosophy but to offer innovations and new ideas that will bring Canadians together, and move us forward. Finally, in my view, an alternative that is going to be trusted enough to win should be built upon the solid foundation of a well-known political brand name, with a record and a leadership Canadians can count on. Those four foundations provide plenty of room for Canadians of good will and shared values to find a way to give this country a realistic choice in the next election.