With all due respect to Popeye, or even Edie Brickell and the New Bohemians comes news that Opposition Leader Stephen Harper is not intending on undergoing an extreme makeover (ok lefties, that is one is waiting for you) but rather reveal the real Stephen Harper.
..."I don't intend to change myself," Harper told Vancouver radio station CKNW during a nationally syndicated call-in show Monday. "I'm not a believer in these so-called image makeovers. I've watched politicians who tried to be something they're not and tried to have all these different incarnations. I think it just comes across as phony.
"I am who I am."
This, of course, is correct. After telegraphing his move their is a huge trap waiting for Mr. Harper and that is looking uncomfortable doing something out of character. As long as he remains who is he is he can avoid this.
...A pair of callers took Harper to task for his "constant negativity," saying he needs a more positive message.
Harper responded that as Opposition leader, Canadians see him primarily in those "five-or 10-second clips where you're attacking the government."
As a result, people get a one-dimensional image, he said.
I think he is correct here. Question Period is one the most visible forums for an Opposition Leader. Prozac Jack has become ineffective in Question Period but he makes up for this my copious interviews on radio and television. Stephen Harper tends to avoid the talk radio rounds so our only impressions are of him attacking (i.e. doing his job) in Question Period. Hopefully this BBQ circuit includes more presence on talk radio and on television interview shows. And remember, it is thank you for having me, not yup.
