While this news isn't exactly surprising to me, what's depressing about it is it changes the dialogue in civic politics from 'what ideas do you have?' to 'who's side are you on?' And to me, that's a step backwards.
I would rather follow the candidates in my ward, think about who's ideas have the combination of vision and practicality that most appeals to me, and then vote for that person. But instead, now I'll probably end up voting based on which candidate has the recognition to get elected, and will support Nenshi on the more divisive issues. And that means I'll be voting for Druh, despite the fact that there will probably be other less-known candidates who I would rather vote for.
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