So Long, David Emerson

Conservative cabinet minister David Emerson has announced he will not run in the expected election this fall.

Emerson made headlines when he crossed the floor to the Conservatives almost immediately after the last election. His riding was in an uproar, and to their credit, they haven't let him get away with it. Wandering through the streets of his Vancouver neighbourhood, you will still find signs of protest, demanding resignation or a by-election.

Unlike other famous floor crossers who manage re-election, such as Belinda Stronach, Emerson has no chance of winning his riding. He knows it, his constituents know it, and they've told him in no uncertain terms he'll be out of a job if an election is called.

It's a shame, really, that all this party foolishness pushes decent politicians out of office. Now, I'm not saying he was an outstanding politician--he did break the trust of those who chose him--but he definitely wasn't the worst, either. If only politics didn't keep good people out of politics.

Emerson is one of three cabinet ministers that will not be running for re-election. In any other government, that might be a big deal, but I can't even say I've heard or seen the other two cabinet ministers mentioned. In fact, Emerson, Maxime Bernier, John Baird, and Peter McKay are the only three cabinet ministers I can readily name, and two of those are only because of scandal. Baird I know because, well, if I could hit him with a dose of reality, I would. On the other hand, I can readily name opposition critics to each ministry, as they are actually allowed to speak to the media. That says something about the media dictatorship of Stephen Harper.

So goodbye, Mr. Emerson. I hope you enjoy your retirement in Vancouver, as the Olympics approach and the city works itself into a frenzy. Kudos to you for stepping down, and kudos to your constituents for demanding some semblance of honesty from their representatives.