November 10, 2006 - Two messages for the Michael Ignatieff campaign.

First, Ignatieff has a wonderful common touch - when given the opportunity. As a candidate, he has the ability to reach out to people and display a genuine character behind the persona. We cannot be afraid to let Michael be who he is, whether that is with the media, party members, or the public. There is no cruise mode in this final stretch.

Secondly, I cannot begin to tell you how impressive the British Columbia campaign team has been in my opinion. Ignatieff started much later out west than most other camps, and thus in spite of timing issues, our showing has been impressive. Three things in particular stand out for me:

1) The sweet and genuine nature of the core campaign volunteers. Those that are there day after day - Herman, Sylvester, Josh, Swithin, Kate, Reza, Gerry, Mindi - these are people involved for all the right reasons. I have the utmost respect for each and every one of you, and the many others that I haven't mentioned by name.

2) The campaign staff - Kim, Bilal and David have been fantastic, even when circumstances have been difficult. Their strategic understanding of the province, their incredible work ethic (in particular, Kim, who is the dream operations manager if and when I decide to run), and their commitment to Michael have all been second to none.

3) Michael's leisurely and relaxed demeanour every time he enters the province. There is an intangible that I see in him here in BC (largely prompted by the way he is treated and advised) that I think gets lost in ths shuffle at other times. He is confident, content, and strong as hell when he meets with West Coast Liberals.

Win, lose or draw, I am very proud to say that I was a small part of this campaign, and the people I have met along the way have given me a renewed faith in the power of friendship, and the qualities of loyalty and devotion, within the realm of politics.

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