[Makarov]

From an article by Warren Kinsella in yesterday's Toronto Sun:

Here are some of the things that Smith said before Wildrose existed, and before she became its leader. She was a lot more candid, back then.

n On abortion: “... Any politician who challenges the status quo gets pilloried by the media, abortion rights groups and opposing politicians ... Yet, second- and third-trimester abortions are a horrific practice ... Most Canadians respect that the decision is between a woman, her doctor and God, but I’m sure they also agree that the taxpayer should not be on the hook to pay for it.”

n On university behaviour codes: “It is perfectly reasonable (to) expect its students to refrain from practices that are biblically condemned, and sign a pledge not to get drunk, swear, harass, lie, cheat, steal, have an abortion, practise the occult, or engage in sexual sins such as premarital sex, adultery, homosexual behaviour and viewing of pornography.”

n On the courts: “There are several decisions social conservatives point to in order to make the case the courts are out of control: Striking down the abortion law, the change in the traditional definition of marriage, the legalization of swingers’ clubs.”

n On overriding charter rights: “The notwithstanding clause is simply not necessary. Politicians are wily enough to find a way to violate charter rights with or without it.”

Those statements are on the record, and readily available via the Internet. There are many more. Smith’s expressed opinions paint the picture of a far-right social conservative, one who wanted to circumvent the courts, and the law, to impose her social agenda.

SOURCE: http://www.torontosun.com/2012/04/13...letely-off-key

ETA: I don't necessarily agree with the article's conclusions. I just thought people might be interested in some extra-provincial views on the Wildrose Alliance.