Independent MP Blair Wilson has joined the Green Party of Canada, making him the first-ever Green politician in the Commons. Having a sitting Party member makes Green Party Leader Elizabeth May’s chances of a spot in the televised leaders’ debates a near certainty in an increasingly likely fall election.
May called it an historic day at an Ottawa news conference this morning.
Wilson is the MP for West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country. He resigned from the Liberal Party under a cloud almost a year ago after questions were raised about his personal finances and has been sitting as an independent MP since the fall of 2007. He was completely clearned of all charges after an 8 month investigation by Elections Canada.
While a spot in the debates isn’t guaranteed, May said the broadcast media consortium that sets the ground rules for the French and English debates has no choice but to ensure she is included now that the party has an MP.
“We believe that under all the criteria that have been put forward . . . that we now have made thoroughly the case that I must be included,” May said.
The Conservative Party and NDP still oppose May's place in the debate; only the Liberals have voiced no opposition.
In Guelph Green Party Canadidate Mike Nagy is showing strong in the Polls and has collected over $40,000 in donations. The bi-election is on September 8th and the Greens could have two members in Parliment.
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