Good thing Mississauga never had term limits!
Not entirely unique; but, a great example of why term limits are undemocratic. Term limits in Mississauga would have deprived the voters of an opportunity to continue the service of that rarest of politicians – one dedicated to improving community life.
True, the typical political hack stays in business catering to bigotry or society’s obsession with the ethics of beancounters. Whether it’s a Strom Thurmond kept in office as a spokesman for Southern Racism or a John McCain who yammers every year about how he’s saving taxpayers money by keeping some town – outside of Arizona – from educating too many kids.
But, there is a great history in North American politics of people like Hazel McCallion – Claude Pepper from Florida or the Udall family in the American Southwest – dedicated to public service and keeping the needs of us ordinary citizens at the top of the list.
More power to you, Hazel. Rock on!
Thanks, Cinaedh
Best Mayor. Ever!
I’ve had the privilege of meeting Ms. McCallion and I have to admit, she provides a dramatic exception to my normal response to politicians, which is almost without exception, intense dislike on first sight and stomach-wrenching disgust, once I got to know them better.
There’s one thing this video doesn’t reveal; it’s just my own, personal observation but Ms. McCallion’s eyes always reminded me of shiny, steel ball bearings.
You don’t frak with her or her city, if you have even a hint of self-preservation in your make-up.
Cinaedh
February 26, 2010 at 9:43 am
A good story. Thanks Ed and Cinaedh.
Mr. Fusion
February 26, 2010 at 9:46 am
And then there’s Harper…
Jägermeister
February 26, 2010 at 1:28 pm
Ah yes, Mr. Harper. He’s the man who suspends democracy whenever he feels threatened with possible defeat. He’d do and say pretty well anything to remain Prime Minister.
It’s surprisingly easy to figure him out. Just listen to what he says and trust the diametric opposite is the truth.
Cinaedh
February 26, 2010 at 2:53 pm
And he has got the charisma of a black hole.
Jägermeister
February 26, 2010 at 3:37 pm