Jobaaj Stories
Ruth Ellen Brosseau: A Political Comeback Bid
Ruth Ellen Brosseau, a name synonymous with the 2011 “orange wave” that swept the NDP into prominence in Quebec, is attempting a political comeback. Fourteen years after her surprising victory as a federal New Democrat MP, Brosseau has declared her candidacy in Berthier-Maskinongé, the riding she previously held.
From "Paper Candidate" to Political Figure
Brosseau's initial election in 2011 was remarkable. She famously hadn't visited her riding before winning, leading to initial criticism. Her trip to Las Vegas during the campaign further fueled the conversation. Yet, she defied expectations, becoming the party’s agriculture critic and winning re-election in 2015. Subsequent losses in 2019 and 2021, the latter by fewer than 1,000 votes, haven't deterred her.
Facing an Uphill Battle
The NDP's current standing in Quebec presents a significant challenge. Recent polls show the party lagging behind the Liberals and Conservatives. This uphill battle isn't deterring Brosseau, who's leveraging her experience and the lessons learned from past campaigns. She highlights local concerns such as river protection, infrastructure, and high-speed internet access as key priorities for her riding.
Jagmeet Singh's Support
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh is actively supporting Brosseau's candidacy, viewing her as a symbol of the party's potential in Quebec. He's campaigning alongside her, highlighting her resilience and emphasizing the possibility for change. Singh’s focus on increasing voter turnout through initiatives like the “HowYouVote.ca” website underscores the party’s strategy to boost participation and improve its standing.
Brosseau's Optimism
Brosseau herself remains optimistic, pointing to her past success as evidence that political landscapes can shift rapidly. She believes voters are ready for a change from the established Liberal and Conservative governments, and that her experience, coupled with her commitment to the issues facing Berthier-Maskinongé, will resonate with constituents.
Conclusion
Ruth Ellen Brosseau's political comeback bid is more than just a personal ambition; it’s a test of the NDP's ability to regain a foothold in Quebec. Her story, marked by both initial criticism and subsequent achievements, serves as a captivating narrative in the ongoing Canadian political landscape. Whether she'll succeed remains to be seen, but her determination and the support of Jagmeet Singh signal a concerted effort to challenge the status quo.
