Elizabeth Witmer’s platform in 2002 as well as her work locally has gained her the reputation. I’ve worked with her before and she’s an uber nice lady, but it’s clear that she doesn’t like having a “conservative” label.

I’ve heard others call her a Red Tory too, but just wondering what it is that has labelled her that way?

I’ve tried to base the descriptions on how the men and women listed have described themselves in the past, but also by being careful to make sure that they are accurate. The general definitions are as follows:

Red Tory – believes in proper management and working within reasonable fiscal framework. Ideologically believes government has great role to play in society and sees it as a tool for prosperity and wealth generation.

Blue Tory – for the purpose of this list, fiscally conservative with libertarian leanings on fiscal matters. Also sympathetic to social matters to varying degrees (eg. believes family building block of society and should be honoured as such)

Teal Tory – given that only Mayor Eisenberger is on the list, let me just say that the environment is a strong priority for him and he believes in ecologically-conscious development. Outside of that, Eisenberger is socially liberal (see 2004 election promises) and a Red Tory on most fiscal matters, with a few notable exceptions

Moderate Tory – I only used this term for Clement because of a lack of a better description. Tony is basically at the centre of the conservative consensus these days. For example, he wants to restrict abortion access, but not ban it & cut taxes, but increase spending in certain areas. He has associated himself both with Mike Harris provincially and Belinda Stronach (the leadership candidate, not the actual person) federally.

Conservative Populist – generally a social/fiscal conservative, but more interested in making party/society more democratic through consultation, referendum, etc. Also anti-establishment as far as party/government is concerned. eg Preston Manning

Cheers,
Matthew

Thanks,