Liberal Bloopers Reel

Why would someone decide not to run for leadership?
Let's ask some of this past week's dropouts...

David Emerson - January 25

"To me, that's what leadership is going to have to be, it's somebody who will hit their maximum appeal probably five years from today, not somebody who's maximum appeal was two years ago or maybe a year from now."

John Manley - January 26

"I know the commitment involved both in a leadership campaign and then if you win, in rebuilding the party, in seeking election," Manley said on CTV's Mike Duffy Live. "And if successful, the prize at the end of the day is a lot of hard work."

"I was ready for that three years ago when I sought the post, but you know times change and life moves on. It may not be forever but right now it wasn't the time to go back," Manley said.

Frank McKenna - January 30

"Contrary to the belief of some, being prime minister of Canada has not been a burning ambition for me,"
"I became addicted to my responsibilities, seven days a week, 24 hours a day. I was unable to find the appropriate balance then and I'm certain I would not be able to find the appropriate balance now. I reminded myself this week of my vow upon leaving office that having escaped the trap, I wouldn't go back for the cheese."

Brian Tobin - January 31

“I think that I’ve had my opportunity and I made my contribution. I enjoyed it enormously...But I think it’s time for new blood and I think it’s time for new players and I think this is an opportunity for the Liberal party to renew itself and, in the process, to heal itself a little bit as well.”

Update:

Allan Rock - February 3

"I know there has been speculation but I'm not going to be a candidate...I've considered it and discussed it with my family, and we've decided that there are many ways to serve Canada and I am not going to take part in the leadership race."