Trudeau says he wants to “connect”

REGINA – Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau was in the Queen City Friday as part of a tour of Western Canada, which included boxing training with former Regina mayor Pat Fiacco. The liberals hope some star power can create real support in the province.

Before his training session with Fiacco, Trudeau was the guest of honour at a family BBQ at the North Central Family Centre.  Those who came out for the event, though, were not necessarily Liberal supporters.

“I”m not exactly sure what my thoughts are on Justin and what he stands for, but I was definitely interested in coming out and hearing him speak,” said Scott Richmond.

The Liberal leader isn’t deterred by needing to prove himself. Trudeau said,”I’m trying to connect with Canadians across the country who for various reasons have lost faith, not just with the government, but with the political system in general.”

Trudeau said his message is something that’s resonating with Saskatchewan residents: “I think they perceive me as someone who is doing politics differently, and who has potential.” 

The family centre appreciates the exposure he generated by coming to the event.

“Being a young person, he’s very passionate and I love it when people come in and focus on youth,” said Sandy Wankel, founder executive director of the North Central Family Centre. 

He can bring out the crowds, but can he bring out the votes?

“If he’s spending a lot of time in Lethbridge and Regina and Saskatoon, it means that they’re hopeful that they might be able to pick up some seats,” said Dr. Jim Farney, a political science professor at the University of Regina. 

Dr. Farney added if Trudeau’s Liberals really want to gain traction, the party needs to bring their “ground game.”

“I don’t know if there’s the type of Liberal constituency associations and activists to let them build a really strong campaign here,” he said. 

“It’s been a failing of the Liberal Party in the last number of years that we have not had that capacity on the ground to sustain the effort, but obviously that’s what we’re trying to build,” said Ralph Goodale. He acknowledged winning seats will take hard work, but said Trudeau’s message of hope and optimism are what they need.

However, they have a long way to go.

“Since I’ve been able to vote in the last couple elections, I haven’t voted for the Liberals, but who knows,” said Richmond.