U.S. Democratic convention shakes down this week in Chicago

MONDAY, AUG. 19—THURSDAY, AUG. 22 U.S. Democratic National Convention—The U.S. Democratic National Convention will take place in Chicago, Ill., Monday, Aug. 19 to Thursday, Aug. 22. Details: chicago2024.com. SATURDAY, AUG. 17—SUNDAY, AUG. 25 Capital Pride—Ottawa’s annual Pride festival kicks off on Saturday, Aug. 17, with a theme of “Listen. Learn. Act.” The two weeks of festivities […]
If they get any traction, from who will the Canadian Future Party skim votes?

The centre is where the majority of Canadians would like to be. But there’s a big question as to whether Dominic Cardy’s party can become more than just a one-man show.
Witness says she’ll return if invited after fracas at House Status of Women Committee, it’s more important than ‘petty politics’

Conservatives are calling on the Liberals to allow witnesses to return to speak after a disastrous House committee meeting on July 31.
Chuck Strahl was ‘smart, sharp, funny, and he brought a smile everywhere he went’: politicos

Plus, Tory MP Garnett Genuis welcomes his sixth child, Bloc Leader Blanchet bumps into former foe David Lametti, and the U.S. ambassador hosts CAF top brass at his residence.
Marlene Catterall was a high-energy, superbly skilled politician

As the first woman chief government whip, she ensured that caucus ran smoothly and legislation got passed. She didn’t take up much space, but knew when to make noise. Her ability to get things done is legendary.
What about the public service under a Conservative government?

If there’s a change in government, the ball will be in the court of the senior public service to show that they deserve the positions they’ve occupied by delivering on a new agenda.
Byelections loom large as parties enter final summer stretch

Liberals are laying low and seem to be lacking urgency after their Toronto byelection defeat back in June, say pollsters.
Feds paid $19.4-million for public opinion research last year, with Public Health Agency and PCO spending the most

Advanis, Ipsos, and Léger were the top three recipients of Ottawa’s research spending last year. These studies have a ‘significant impact’ on government decisions, says former Conservative policy adviser David Murray.
It won’t be easy when the election rolls in

Political parties will exploit our hopes and fears by prepping candidates to ensure our choice is driven by reactionary emotions, not critical analysis. Luckily, we can sift through the noise, and to make an informed decision instead.
How to parry an attack

Playing defence doesn’t mean you have to be defensive. If anything, you should use your opponent’s attack as a chance to counterattack.