I guess it really does pour when it rains. You don’t need me to recap what’s happened to Lisa Raitt. First a document of secrets forgotten at CTV, now a digital recorder with callous remarks found in a washroom.
Per usual, insert the word “sex” or any derivative thereof. e.g. “sexy” and that’s where the focus goes. Also per usual, the parties concerned align themselves on either side of the spin. One person’s outrage is another person’s dismissal. And then, of course, there is Angry Steve Janke who somehow sees the issue about bankers and Michael Ignatieff. C’mon Steve, change the channel okay, but leave the TV alone.
By definition the Isotope issue is a significant one. No argument here. And if “sexy” is the word Lisa Raitt uses to mean significant or important, well, that’s her choice too just as it is who she hires and fires as her Director of Communications. But surely to goodness Jasmine MacDonnell isn’t also responsible for everything Lisa Raitt utters.
Put “sexy” aside. Like Janke and others I am not too hyped about that. There has to be some latitude for how we say things in private. But here is the quote Lisa Raitt - and those who reportedly have the embattled minister in their confidence – should worry about:
“They’re terrified of the issues … You know what? Good. Because when we win on this, we get all the credit. I’m ready to roll the dice on this. This is an easy one. You know what solves this problem? Money. And if it’s just about money, we’ll figure it out. It’s not a moral issue.”
Trust me, that quote and not the use of the word “sexy” is what may cause Lisa Raitt to fall from grace. Contrast this with the untimely reporting of the death of 20 year old Alexandre Péloquin. According to the CBC Private Péloquin’s dream was to defend his country.
Lisa Raitt possibly has the same dream about serving her country, but only if she “gets all the credit.” How sexy is that?